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January 19-20, 2019At their meeting last November, the Bishops of the United States approved a document entitled Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love: A Pastoral Letter Against Racism. In this letter, they invite all of us to confront the sin of racism in our society and to consider if there is any racism in our parishes and personal lives that needs to be addressed. The Martin Luther King holiday this week provides us with further incentive to consider this important issue. Our parish is wonderfully diverse, and that gift gives us an opportunity to give witness that all of us are children of God, created in God’s beautiful image. The document begins by reminding us that:

Holy Scripture boldly proclaims, “See what love the Father has

bestowed on us that we may be called the children of God. Yet

so we are” (1 Jn 3:1). This love “comes from God and unites us

to God; through this unifying process it makes us a ‘we’ which

transcends our divisions and makes us one, until in the end God

is ‘all in all’ (1 Cor 15:28).” By the work of the Holy Spirit, the

Church is called to share with all the world this gift of love. As

Pope Francis points out, “The salvation which God has wrought,

and the Church joyfully proclaims, is for everyone. God has found

a way to unite himself to every human being in every age.” Through

his Cross and Resurrection, Christ united the one human race to

the Father. However, even though Christ’s victory over sin and death

is complete, we still live in a world affected by them. As bishops

of the Catholic Church in the United States, we want to address

one particularly destructive and persistent form of evil. Despite

many promising strides made in our country, racism still infects

our nation.

What Is Racism? Racism arises when—either consciously or

unconsciously—a person holds that his or her own race or

ethnicity is superior, and therefore judges persons of other races or

ethnicities as inferior and unworthy of equal regard. When this

conviction or attitude leads individuals or groups to exclude,

ridicule, mistreat, or unjustly discriminate against persons on the

basis of their race or ethnicity, it is sinful. Racist acts are sinful

because they violate justice. They reveal a failure to acknowledge

the human dignity of the persons offended, to recognize them as

the neighbors Christ calls us to love (Mt 22:39).

I encourage all to read this document and consider this issue. The document can be found at usccb.org/racism.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 14 Jan 2019 08:14:44 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-19-20-2019
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-19-20-2019Sharon MyersSharon MyersJanuary 12-13, 2019Last Sunday we celebrated the feast of the Epiphany, a word which means manifestation, revelation, appearance, making known, or showing forth. Jesus was revealed first to poor Jewish shepherds and then to wealthy Gentile Magi. Jesus is proclaimed as the light for all people!

This theme of proclaiming Jesus as our Light and Savior continues for the next two Sundays, with two more "epiphanies" about him. Today, as we celebrate his Baptism in the Jordan by John the Baptist, we hear John proclaim Jesus as "one mightier than he," and the One "who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire." And then the Father confirms that as the Voice from the heavens reveals him as his beloved Son with whom He is well pleased. Jesus' baptism is another Epiphany, another proclamation. Next Sunday Jesus begins his public ministry by attending a wedding in Cana. We hear how Mary nudges him to save the newly married couple from embarrassment by doing something about the lack of wine for the celebration. He does so by changing water into fine wine. John the evangelist calls this a "sign" and concludes this story by saying what Jesus did "revealed his glory." Another Epiphany, another revelation, about who He is and what He can do for us. Jesus has been sent to change things! We will continue to hear many stories in the Gospels of ways that Jesus is revealed throughout the year as the One sent from God for us and what He wants to do in us. I think these Epiphanies continue right into our times and our day. How has Jesus been revealed to you personally? Who or what reveals Jesus to you now? In Advent we prayed around the theme Bring Him Forth. Maybe another way of saying that same thing during this season can be: "Be an Epiphany!"

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 07 Jan 2019 02:33:42 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-12-13-2019
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-12-13-2019Sharon MyersSharon MyersJanuary 5-6, 2019After Jesus was revealed to Jewish shepherds on the night of his birth, Jesus is now revealed as the “light of revelation to the Gentiles” symbolized by the visit of the Magi. Jesus is the Savior of all people, Jew and Gentile, rich and poor. I have always been intrigued by the final words of today’s Gospel: After the magi learned that Herod wanted to do harm to Jesus, the Magi went home “by another way.” I suspect that Matthew the Evangelist meant this both geographically and spiritually. They went to their home countries by another route, so that Herod would not track them down and do harm to them, but they also went home changed, different, by the encounter with Jesus. If we have done Christmas well – and I don’t mean that we gave a lot of presents, decorated, baked, or went to a lot of parties -- we too have probably been changed by our prayerful journey through Advent, and our own personal encounter with the Lord. I often suggest to people that on this Sunday we should drive to our homes after Mass “by another way,” by a different route, to remind ourselves that Jesus calls us to conversion and change of heart – to do things differently because of Him. It might be simple and silly, but I have found it to be a good, experiential reminder of this call.

There is also a tradition today that we bless our homes on this feast. Just as the Holy Family welcomed these guests into their home, so we pray that our homes will be a place of welcome, hospitality, and holiness. A simple blessing has been included in today’s bulletin. We are also providing you with chalk which you can use to write 20 + C M B + 19 above your doors. The CMB stands for both the traditional names of the three magi (Caspar, Melchior, Balthasar) and the Latin for May Christ bless this home.” (Sometimes people choose to put crosses between each initial.)

Fr. Jeff

]]>Fri, 04 Jan 2019 04:53:17 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-5-6-2019
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-5-6-2019Sharon MyersSharon MyersDecember 29-30, 2018The year’s end naturally makes one look back and remember. I have been here at Transfiguration for one full year now, and 2018 has been a good, full year. I have learned a lot, and enjoyed all of it. There is a joke that priests don’t have much to do, since all they do is say Mass on weekends! Actually we keep a pretty full schedule! In addition to all the regular things a parish does, like weekend and weekday masses, weddings, funerals, baptisms, (with the preparation involved,) hospital visitation, attending Pastoral Council and Commission meetings, (Finance, Evangelization, Discipleship, Education, and Christian Service), children’s and adult education, youth ministry, Knights of Columbus, Men’s Club, etc., there are the events that are important to Transfiguration: pro-life activities, SOS, Crossroads, Fish Fries, Franciscan Outreach, Taste of Transfiguration, the Parish Picnic, the many forms of Christmas outreach – to name just a few items. We have also started to think about how we can provide some Senior Activities and Social Justice animation. I started the year with “Listening Sessions;” we used the information gathered to write a Vision Statement and develop a Plan for the year with 9 goals and strategies to move toward them. We tried to update our census records and put out a new Pictorial Directory. I think we are making good progress in what we set out to do. In caring for our grounds and buildings, we finished putting in new doors and fixed up the front of Church with a fountain and new sign.

This year 6 young people made first communion and 11 were confirmed. In the adult education arena, we studied the Archbishop’s Pastoral Letter Unleash the Gospel during Lent, the four Gospels during the summer, and the document on Political Responsibility before the mid-term elections. In the Gathering Space we have started using the monitor to share information and Flocknote email and text messages to stay in touch. This year we also provided themes to help us pray through the major seasons of Lent and Advent. During Lent we prayed about the many Covenants God invites us to, and during Advent, we have tried to “Bring Him Forth.”

So what does 2019 hold for us? Lots more excitement I am sure. For starters let mention just a few. We will welcome three new members at the Easter Vigil and have a parish Mission with Auxiliary Bishop Ferd Cheri (of New Orleans) at the end of March/beginning of April. We will host the Blessed Solanus Casey relic in May and a gathering of former friars (our Franciscan “alumni”) in June. Practically we will have to address concerns about cracks in the parking lot and we hope to finish off the main entrance to our church with new lighting and some benches and flowers. Most of all, it will be another year of blessing from the Lord, full of gifts, challenges, surprises, and invitations to deeper discipleship. For 2018 we give thanks; for 2019, we open our arms and hearts. We will continue to find ways to Unleash the Gospel in an Amazing Parish.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 27 Dec 2018 02:21:48 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-29-30-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-29-30-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersDecember 22-23, 2018During this Advent season we have been trying to Bring Him Forth by 1) doing what is right and just, 2) letting our love increase, 3) having kindness to all, and 4) believing that what was promised is fulfilled. I hope that this Advent theme has been helpful for your Advent prayer and reflection. As you know we “borrowed” that phrase from St. Francis, who wrote in a Letter to All the Faithful:

We should never desire to be above others, but ought rather

to be servants and subject “to every human creature for

God’s sake.” And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon

all those who do these things and who shall persevere to

the end, and He shall make His abode and dwelling in

them, and they shall be children of the heavenly Father

whose works they do, and they are the spouses, brothers

and mothers of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are spouses

when by the Holy Ghost the faithful soul is united to

Jesus Christ. We are His brothers when we do the will

of His Father who is in heaven. We are His mothers when

we bear Him in our heart and in our body through pure

love and a clean conscience and we bring Him forth by

holy work which ought to shine as an example to others.

We pray that this spirit will continue as we move into a New Year, and that we will all do what we can to “bring Him forth” and “unleash the Gospel” in our parish, families, and society.

On behalf of the Friars and the Parish Pastoral Team, I wish you all a very blessed and joyful Christmas season. Thank you for your generosity and many expressions of kindness to us and the parish. May 2019 be a year of grace and blessing for all of us.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Sat, 22 Dec 2018 01:22:34 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-22-23-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-22-23-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersDecember 15-16, 2018It is interesting to remember that the Holy Family was travelling from Nazareth to Bethlehem to be counted in a census when Jesus was born, but because of the crowds “there was no room for them in the inn.” After Herod became threatened when he heard from the magi that there was a newborn king, they left their homeland and went to Egypt until the danger passed. We hear so much about migrants and refugees these days, not only those from Central American countries who seek a better life and safety in this country, but this is happening all over the world. Recently there was a worldwide meeting of Franciscan Friars with representatives from every Province and country. One of the “signs of the times” that was noticed was this great movement of peoples. Because of the Hebrews’ experience of slavery and exile, the Bible is filled with passages that encourage a spirit of welcome: “The alien who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall love the alien as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” (Leviticus 19:34) This is a prayer from the US Bishops:

Lord Jesus, when you multiplied the loaves and fishes, you provided more than food for the body, you offered us the gift of yourself, the gift which satisfies every hunger and quenches every thirst! Your disciples were filled with fear and doubt, but you poured out your love and compassion on the migrant crowd, welcoming them as brothers and sisters.

Lord Jesus, today you call us to welcome the members of God's family who come to our land to escape oppression, poverty, persecution, violence, and war. Like your disciples, we too are filled with fear and doubt and even suspicion. We build barriers in our hearts and in our minds.

Lord Jesus, help us by your grace,

· To banish fear from our hearts, that we may embrace each of your children as our own brother and sister;

· To welcome migrants and refugees with joy and generosity, while responding to their many needs;

· To realize that you call all people to your holy mountain to learn the ways of peace and justice;

· To share of our abundance as you spread a banquet before us;

· To give witness to your love for all people, as we celebrate the many gifts they bring.

We praise you and give you thanks for the family you have called together from so many people. We see in this human family a reflection of the divine unity of the one Most Holy Trinity in whom we make our prayer: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.

In a similar vein, often at Christmas we welcome people who don’t often come to Mass during the rest of the year. Also as people travel to visit family and friends, they may find their way to our parish. The Archdiocese is asking all parishes to provide an “unusually gracious hospitality” to all who come to worship this Christmas, in the hopes that those who are not regular churchgoers will feel so welcomed that they want to return again. I ask all of us to be welcoming and hospitable this Christmas to all who come to worship here, even if they take your usual parking spot or pew! Please welcome our guests!

I have just become aware that on Monday, January 21, the Martin Luther King holiday, there is a Peace Walk of 1 mile, beginning at Hope Methodist Church at 9:30 AM, and ending with a program at the Southfield Civic Center Pavilion at 11:00 AM. I am wondering if we might be able to gather a group from our parish. Please let me know.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Wed, 12 Dec 2018 02:47:28 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-15-16-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-15-16-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersDecember 8-9, 2018For the last few months we have been experimenting with a new form of email and text communication called Flocknote. This is a program designed for Churches, helping pastors stay in touch with members of the parish. We would appreciate hearing your feedback about these emails and texts. We find them useful in helping to share information about parish life. They provide us with an opportunity to reinforce information shared in the bulletin or in church in a (hopefully) creative and engaging way. But what do you think? Are they helpful, effective, useful? Are there ways we could improve? Most recently we have been sending out a daily Advent reflection. I hope they have been helpful in your Advent journey.

We could use your help in cleaning up our data base. At the moment we have 531 names or telephone numbers or email addresses in the Flocknote database. However, the program indicates that less than 300 of those have been receiving our messages. This means that for about 230 people we do not 1) have a cell phone number, or 2) an email address, or 3) our information is inaccurate. We understand that some of you may not have an email address or cell phone or we have a landline phone number in this data base. For the system to work you need either a cellphone or email address, hopefully both. We have the option of sending an email message - which enables us to be a little creative - or a simple and brief text message.

If you have been receiving the messages, you do not need to do anything. If you have not been receiving them, and would like to, we would love to hear from you so that we can make sure we stay in touch with you. First you can make sure we have your cell phone number and/or email address. You can also enter your information in the program directly. You can text good2Bhere to 84576 or visit flocknote.com/TransfigurationSFLD. It is always possible to stop receiving message or to unsubscribe.

In his Letter to All the Faithful, St. Francis invited all Christians to allow God to dwell in our hearts and to “bring him forth” again into the world as we seek to do God’s will. We invite you to pray in that spirit during this Advent season.

St. Francis of Assisi: Letter to all the Faithful

“We should never desire to be above others, but ought rather to be servants and subject “to every human creature for God’s sake.” And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon all those who do these things and who shall persevere to the end, and He shall make His abode and dwelling in them, and they shall be children of the heavenly Father whose works they do, and they are the spouses, brothers and mothers of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are spouses when by the Holy Ghost the faithful soul is united to Jesus Christ. We are His brothers when we do the will of His Father who is in heaven. We are His mothers when we bear Him in our heart and in our body through pure love and a clean conscience and we bring Him forth by holy work which ought to shine as an example to others.”

December 1 / 2 Bring Him Forth: by doing what is right and just!

Take home a blessing for your Advent wreath

Take home a paper to write down ways you will try to “bring him forth”

Take home a blessing for your tree Join us to share stories about Christmas customs from your family/country

Tuesday, December 18, 7:00 PM--Bring a dozen cookies to exchange

December 22 / 23 Bring Him Forth:by believing that what was promised is fulfilled!

Bring infant from your home nativity to be blessed

Bring back “how I brought him forth” and pin it on bulletin board in the gathering space.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 26 Nov 2018 04:33:46 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-1-2-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-1-2-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersNovember 24-25, 2018This is a season for a lot of celebration, both in Church and society!

I hope you and your family had a good Thanksgiving! It is one of my favorite holidays since it is such a family based celebration and largely centered around a meal. I hope the spirit of thanksgiving remains with you for a long time and spills over into all aspects of your life. I can hear in my head one of the things my mom used to say a lot: “my cup runneth over.” Her heart would rejoice when she saw her kids gather and interact and she celebrated our joys and accompanied us in our struggles. Don’t let thanksgiving be something we do just on one day! May your cup run over with joy and gratitude! A grateful heart (and an attitude of gratitude) recognizes that everything we have and are is a gift. Maybe you can make it a conscious effort to really notice things you are grateful for. And in my experience, that almost always leads to prayer. I remember reading a book years ago entitled, Gratitude, the Heart of Prayer. To celebrate Eucharist is to give thanks, and that is the root meaning of the Greek word.

I was not able to be with my (blood) family at Thanksgiving, but I was able to join them earlier in the month for my niece’s wedding in Kalamazoo. (The local friars gathered for a feast on Thanksgiving Day, hosted by the friars who work at St. Aloysius downtown.) All my siblings were able to come to the wedding, and this was the first time in a long time that we were all together. About 20 of us gathered in brother’s hotel room for hours, catching up on each other’s lives. Nobody in the room next door complained, though they surely could have! My sister and my brother had cleverly choreographed an announcement where they each announced the other’s retirement, after 30+ years, from Kroger (the grocery store.) It was good to be with them, and I am grateful!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 15 Nov 2018 02:22:01 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-24-25-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-24-25-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersNovember 17-18, 2018I am thrilled to let you know that we are now able to restart our youth ministry program due to the generosity of two people: John Houle and Alan Dsouza. John and Alan have volunteered to gather our junior and senior high students on certain Friday evenings at 6:30 pm in the Duns Scotus room. We will begin again on Friday, November 30, 6:30 pm. It may not happen exactly this way at the beginning, but we hope to meet two Friday evenings a month. The format will be similar to what was done previously: snacks, prayer, discussion, activities. We know that students will enjoy this fun and informative opportunity to gather with their peers. We hope that our parents will be supportive and help get our students to the gatherings. I am most grateful to John and Alan for their generosity and willingness to share their faith in this forum.

Now that you have signed up for the Unleash the Gospel Challenge (texting GOSPEL to 484848 or visiting utgchallenge.com), I thought I would remind you about our own Flocknote message system. The parish can now send out periodic text messages or email blasts to parishioners. To sign up for these you text good2Bhere to 84576. Our sign up phrase is reminiscent of what the disciples said when they witnessed Jesus’ transfiguration: “Lord, it is good for us to be here.” If you don’t know what I am talking about, or if you have not received them in the recent past, please talk to me and I can help.

November is the month in which we pause to give thanks for the many blessings we have received throughout the year. I encourage you to make Thanksgiving more than just a day. Why not begin now to call God’s blessings to mind, perhaps choose one thing each day. It could make our celebrating on Thanksgiving day richer and fuller, because we will have prepared well. November is also the month in which we remember our departed loved ones. Perhaps we could bring these two themes together by calling to mind, each day, a loved one who has died and giving thanks for the gift he or she was in your life. We have so much and so many to be grateful for!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 15 Nov 2018 02:19:19 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-17-18-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-17-18-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersNovember 10-11, 2018Many of us know each other well, but some of us don’t know each other too well, or let’s face it, at all. We may see each other at mass and other church functions, but often do not know each other’s names or much else about one another. Often parishioners who always attend the Saturday 4:30 PM mass do not know parishioners who always attend one of the Sunday morning masses! Sometimes parishioners who attend the same mass don’t get the opportunity to meet or interact with a parishioner who sits in a different part of the Church. One of my goals as Pastor here at Transfiguration is to promote a sense of community. The Pastoral Council also adopted the same goal in the Pastoral Plan for this year. Goal 1 is “to strengthen and deepen our spirit of hospitality” and goal 3 is “to deepen our sense of community.” It starts with getting to know one another. One strategy that was suggested to help us move toward those goals was to profile parishioners in the bulletin.

I have been trying to think of ways to implement this strategy. In some ways, it is full of challenges! How to pick which parishioners to be profiled? How to profile so many parishioners? (It would take a very long time to get through all of us!) What to ask? How to even make this happen? But we’re up to the challenge!

I have been thinking of a few ways this could be done. 1) I (or someone) could just start alphabetically through our directory and do a phone interview. 2) A brief paragraph could be written up about the person or family (hopefully along with a picture) and inserted in the bulletin on a periodic basis. I am thinking of a rather brief write up, so that about 3 profiles could be on a page. 3) Individuals or families could submit their own paragraph about themselves. Eventually I would hope some parishioner(s) might be willing to take on this project. It would be a good way to get to know other parishioners.

I would hope this would be non-threatening! We could develop a little template pretty easily. I think it would be interesting to know things like how long a person has been a member of the parish; what activities he/she/they are involved in; which mass they usually attend; perhaps a bit about family and work. Maybe a memorable church experience or a hope for the parish could be shared.

So what do you think? I need your help with this one. Can you give me some feedback? It would be a little bit of work, but the benefit to the parish could be significant. I can imagine parishioners who do not yet know each other coming up to someone who has been profiled, saying “I read about you…” And the conversation and sense of connection and community would deepen! That’s what I hope would happen and what a blessing that would be.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Wed, 07 Nov 2018 07:39:54 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-10-11-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-10-11-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersNovember 3-4, 2018Each week we list the names of parishioners who have experienced some illness and we are invited to pray for them. I think this is a beautiful thing, and invites us to a sense of community, support, and solidarity with our brothers and sisters who are ill and may feel isolated or alone.

At the same time, our list continues to grow and we often do not know if the person is now well or if they continue to need our special prayer. I think it is time to refresh our list and our practice of publishing these names.

Beginning with the New Year, January, 2019, I suggest the following practice:

1. If you wish your name or the name of your loved one to remain on

the list, please call the office by December 14 and make that re-

quest. We are more than happy to put the name on the prayer list.

2. If we do not hear anything by December 14, the name will be re-

moved from the list.

3. Names will remain on the list for 2 months. If you wish your

name or the name of a loved one to remain on the list, simply call

the office and request it for another 2 months. We will be more

than happy to do this.

4. Please limit the names you submit to just a few and to members

of your family.

I hope you understand that this in no way is meant to exclude anyone or suggest we should not pray for those who are in special need, but it is simply a way to make sure our list is current and fresh. Please take the opportunity to bring these people to the Lord when you pray. I know they will appreciate it.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 01 Nov 2018 06:11:50 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-3-4-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-3-4-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersOctober 27-28, 2018I don t know how we got here so quickly, but this week we enter the month of November! We begin remembering All Saints and All Souls: all the holy ones who have gone before us, especially those whom we have known and loved. This is the month that we traditionally remember our beloved dead, our faithful departed. Next weekend we will remember all those whose funerals we have celebrated here at the Church of the Transfiguration during this past year. After Mass, everyone who has lost a loved one during the past year will also be able to light a candle in their memory in the gathering space. All month long a book will be available for us to write the names of all of our loved ones. It is good and comforting to remember these words from the Book of Wisdom, often read at funerals:

The souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall them. They seemed in the view of the foolish, to be dead, and their passing away was thought an affliction, and their going forth from us, utter destruction. But they are at peace.

For if before men indeed they be punished , yet is their hope full of

immortality. Chastised a little, they shall be greatly blessed, be-

cause God tried them and found them worthy of himself. As gold

in the furnace he proved them and as sacrificial offerings he took

them to himself. In the time of their visitation they shall shine,

and shall dart about as sparks through stubble. They shall judge

nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord shall be their King

forever. Those who trust in him shall understand truth, and the

faithful shall abide with him in love. Because grace and mercy are

with his holy ones, and his care is with his elect.

This is a good time to give thought to our own mortality; not easy, but necessary and helpful for our loved ones. Do you have a will? Have you named a Power of Attorney to make decisions if you are unable to make them for yourself? Have you let them know your healthcare wishes? Have you discussed plans for your funeral? On the weekend of November 17/18, representatives of the Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese will be available after each Mass to offer a brief presentation. We plan in the hope of resurrection and immortality! Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat. But if it dies, it produces much fruit! May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest In peace.

1) A few weeks ago we announced that with the resignation of our youth minister Joe Dallo that would be joining Our Lady of La Salette Parish Youth Ministry Program. Unfortunately that has not worked out. None of our students have been able to participate for various understandable reasons. Therefore I am inviting parents and junior and senior high aged youth to come to a meeting on Friday, October 26, 6:30 pm in the Duns Scotus room where we will discuss, over pizza, how we might move forward in providing some kind of ministry for your young people. Our numbers are relatively few which makes hiring a youth minster somewhat challenging, so we hope that the parents and students might have some ideas.

2) In the next few weeks you can expect to see some improvements in the main entrance to the church. We have been studying the situation for some time, and things are finally falling into place. You may have already noticed that the bushes in the four “serpentine” flower bed areas have been removed; that area will be sodded to make lawn care easier. You have also probably noticed some new cement work around the center circle. Unfortunately, the cement has become uneven and there have been some minor accidents. We hope this will address that problem. The four “crescents” around the center circle will be filled in with brick that matches the main entrance to the church. Eventually, perhaps next spring, we hope to put some benches and planters in those areas. We have tried to grow flowers in the crescents, but the materials we use during the winter for ice and snow inhibit the growth of plants and flowers. At some point, we will install new lights along the entrance way. We will install a “waterscape” in the center circle, i.e., a rock and waterfall formation with grasses and lighting. Sometimes people who are new to our church are not sure where the entrance is. We will also be installing a sign over the front doors which says “Church of the Transfiguration.” Next spring we will spruce up the landscaping on the right and left of the main entrance.

3) A new furnace is also being installed before the cold weather sets in.

4) These projects will be financed primarily from the amount the parish received from the Archdiocesan campaign “Changing Lives Together,” with some help from our regular maintenance budget. (Of course, if anyone would like to help defray the cost of these improvements, we wouldn’t complain!) We try to be good stewards of the funds and property that have been entrusted to our care. We’re excited about these improvements!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 15 Oct 2018 04:24:04 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-20-21-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-20-21-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersOctober 13-14, 2018We have survived SOS! It was a lot of work, and I am sure many of us are tired, but I hope it is a good tired. Again, thanks so much for all who worked so hard and contributed so generously. Remember: what we do for the least, we do for Jesus.

Transfiguration Parish is very committed to Christian Service! And in many ways, we are just getting started. On October 20, we will be joining other parishes throughout the Archdiocese in a “Mercy in Action” Day. There will be opportunities to be involved in several activities: Prayer, Witness at Northland Family Planning, donating coats or other items to those in needs. You can bring small household items that St. Vincent de Paul will find a good home for. You will find a container in our parking lot.

This year through October and November, we will be joining “Lift Up Southfield” churches and synagogues in collecting new and gently used winter coats. You can bring them to church, and we will see that they get to the right place. This interfaith project is called “Congregations for Coats.”

Of course, our own Franciscan Outreach Program will be providing special Thanksgiving and Christmas food packages and gifts for the needy. We will have our annual Christmas Giving Tree which enable us to provide gifts for people in nursing homes.

You are a very generous faith community; generosity inspires and calls forth more generosity. Thank you for your giving spirit. It is clear that you appreciate the insight of the Peace Prayer of St. Francis that it is in “giving that we receive.” When we do get to Christmas, we will be able to receive the one whom the Father sends to show us His generosity and love!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 08 Oct 2018 05:07:06 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-13-14-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-13-14-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersOctober 6-7, 2018The Gospel of Matthew, chapter 25, contains a well-known and powerful passage about the final judgment. At that time, the Son of Man will separate everyone into two groups, “as a shepherd separates sheep from goats.” He will say to the sheep, “Come you have my Father’s blessings! Inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me.” When the sheep ask when they did such things, the king answers, “I assure you, as often as you did it for one of my least brothers or sisters, you did it for me.”

Today our parish begins our week of providing shelter for the temporarily homeless through SOS, South Oakland Shelter. I am happy that we can be part of this effort. I am so very grateful for our organizers, Jon Fox, Debbie Eagenwest, and Clyde Bostick. I am also grateful for the small army of volunteers who make this possible, by donating time, talent, and treasure. Your generosity is palpable, tangible, and visible. I feel like I am seeing this passage of the Gospel take on flesh. You are giving up sleep, providing food, paper goods, driving, cooking, and supervising. Thank you, one and all, for your goodness and generosity and helping me experience the Word becoming flesh in this way. As a parish, we are all privileged to welcome Jesus in our midst this week through this experience.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 01 Oct 2018 02:54:02 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-6-7-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-6-7-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersSeptember 29-30, 2018One of the goals we set for ourselves as a parish is to promote priestly and religious vocations. One small step toward that goal will take place today, Sunday, September 30, from 4 pm -8 pm at the friary. The friars are inviting any Catholic single young man, 18-35, to join us for conversation, prayer, and dinner. There is no commitment or obligation in attending, and I promise there will be no pressure! It is for any young man who might be interested in or considering a vocation, or just plain curious about what our life is like. It is a modest opportunity to meet some friars and hear about our experiences of living in fraternity and serving in ministry. Most of the friars from the Detroit area will be present and a few have agreed to “prime the pump” by sharing briefly about their life’s journey and their decision to become a Franciscan Friar. We’ll try to answer any questions about how one joins the Franciscans, what our province is like, where we serve and what we do, etc. Even if you did not sign up earlier, you are still welcome. If anyone is interested, please let me know so I can make sure there is enough food and seats at the table!

But what if you are not a young man, 18-35? -- and that is many (most!) of us! I would urge you to encourage someone whom you think would make a good friar or priest. Or a sister, too! Maybe even a member of your family! Studies have shown that one of the most effective means of encouraging vocations is letting the person know that you think they would make a good friar, priest, or sister. Tell them what gifts you see in them. The first response, might be, “Who, me? Are you kidding? I have already made plans for my life.” But such an encouragement or invitation might plant a seed and can begin an internal process of reflection that might someday bear fruit. Clearly this way of life is not for everyone, but it is meaningful and wonderful way to spend one’s life and energy.

When I was serving as Provincial Minister for 9 years, 44 friars passed away. During that same time period, 8 friars joined us by making solemn profession. (There were more who were in our program for a while, but they rightly discerned that this was not the life for them.) We had to cut back some of our ministries because 8 people could not do what 44 did. It is true that in these days we are getting fewer in number, but we remain vital and enthusiastic about living and sharing the Gospel, and we do hope some young men will hear the Lord’s call to think about joining us as a possibility. The Lord might use you to issue you the invitation.

A few weeks back, our youth minister Joe Dallo told me that because of family and school obligations he would have to step down from that role. Joe and his wife Maria just had a second daughter, Felicity. Congratulations! Joe is also studying theology and ministry at Sacred Heart Seminary, so they have their hands full. Joe has done a great job with the young people and we are grateful for his presence and work. Thank you, Joe; all the best as you move on.

After some consultation, we have decided to ask our Junior and Senior High youth to join Our Lady of La Salette Parish in Berkley on Monday evenings from 7-9 pm. We realize that this will present some challenges for us, but it can also strengthen our outreach and accompaniment of our youth. We have some history there; I understand that for a time in the past Transfiguration youth and La Salette youth were together. Our Lady of La Salette has two dedicated youth ministers, a man and a woman, who have welcomed our young people to join them. Both groups are small, and working together will strengthen both of us. They have a dedicated room for youth ministry. They provide opportunities for discussion, service, and even mission trips. From time to time, events can be held here at Transfiguration.

We would love to be able to provide some adult accompaniment from our parish to our young people, at least from time to time, as they gather at Our Lady of La Salette. If anyone has any interest, please let me know. The first gathering of the year is Monday, September 24, 7 pm at La Salette. I will be present to welcome our young people at that gathering. So Junior and Senior High Transfiguration youth: see you there!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Tue, 18 Sep 2018 06:00:20 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-22-23-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-22-23-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersSeptember 15-16, 2018Today, throughout the United States, Catholic Churches are celebrating what is called Catechetical Sunday. This is an opportunity for us to think about how our faith has been handed on to us, and how we can hand it on to the next generation. I am thinking about those who have taught me, inspired me, and encouraged me in walking the journey of faith, and I am grateful for them. When parents present a child for baptism, the minister reminds them that “it will be your duty to bring him or her up in the practice of our faith” and asks directly “do you clearly understand what you are undertaking?” It is a significant responsibility; one that we might not feel completely prepared for. But your fellow parishioners stand ready to help! We are grateful to the parents who present their children for classes and especially for our catechists and aides. Our classes for our young people are on Sunday morning after the 10:00 am Mass. Our Confirmation students meet on Wednesday evenings.

But you know, even after we finish our formal education, it is important that we adults continue our faith formation. We never stop needing to learn and grow. We hope to provide some opportunities throughout the year for adult education. Each Tuesday morning, Terry Taylor offers a Bible Study from 9:00 am to 10:15 am. This year he is focusing on Parables. Each Thursday evening from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, St. Helen Therese studies the upcoming Sunday readings. In October we hope to use a program provided by the US Catholic Bishops on our responsibility to participate in the political life of our country. I ran across a saying from Henry Ford: “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning, stays young.” Let’s stay young together!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 17 Sep 2018 02:52:40 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-15-16-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-15-16-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersSeptember 8-9, 2018There is a popular show on TV called America’s Got Talent; perhaps you have seen it and enjoy it. People from all over America share their skills and talents, hoping to make it big. But you know what I enjoy watching? Transfiguration’s Got Talent! I see it each week and am amazed at the wonderful generosity and sharing spirit of our parishioners! This weekend we have our own “Time and Talent” sign up. No audition is necessary! We hope you will take some time to visit the hall and become aware of all the wonderful efforts that make up Transfiguration Parish. And we hope you will be able to share your faith and support other parishioners, even in some small ways. We have all the usual needs: lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, usher, servers, committee members, etc. You will see all the possibilities on the sign up form.

This year we are thinking of starting some new efforts. If you are interested in helping with any of these please let us know. One effort would be a Senior Activities Committee. This group of people would plan and promote activities that seniors might enjoy doing together, e.g., going to a play, a museum, the symphony, visiting historic sites, etc. Another would be a Communications Committee. This group would help us make sure all the great things we have going on are shared with others through forums like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Flocknote, the newspaper, Catholic radio, and local access TV. Another group would be a Social Justice Committee. This group would make the parish aware of the many issues being promoted by the US bishops and the Michigan Catholic Conference and help us make our concerns known to our legislators. They could, for example, help us “advocate,” e.g., provide letters that we could send to our representatives promoting Catholic values. We also wish to see if there is interest in Small Faith Sharing Groups. These would be small groups of 6-8 people who would get together on a regular basis, usually in one another’s homes, to pray, to discuss some issue, and support one another in living a life of faith and discipleship. This is the weekend to let us know how you will contribute to the life of the parish and if you would like to be part of one of these new ventures. Transfiguration has so much talent to share!

And don’t forget: Please take the time to register your children for our religious education program. We need some time to order the materials so that everything will go smoothly for our children. We also need you to invite and encourage your friends, neighbors, or family members who might be interested in exploring the Catholic faith to be part of our program for adults or children. Thanks for all you do to help make this a vital and vibrant parish! May God bless us as we begin again.

In last Sunday’s first reading from the OT book of Joshua, we heard Joshua stand before all the tribes of Israel and call them to a decision about following the Lord. “If it does not please you to serve the Lord, decide today whom you will serve, the gods your fathers served beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose country you are now dwelling. As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” The people, acknowledging all that God had done for them, for protecting them on the journey and bringing them out of slavery in Egypt, also declared, “Far be it from us to forsake the Lord for the service of other gods…. We will serve the Lord, for he is our God.” I have always liked Joshua’s declaration: “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” While there certainly are successful households that share different faith traditions, for many of us faith is a family affair. A shared faith can deepen the bond between spouses and families. Passing on the faith is a sacred parental duty. When parents present a child for baptism, the priest or deacon reminds the parents that in asking for baptism they are “accepting the responsibility of training them in the practice of the faith. It will be your duty to bring them up to keep God’s commandments as Christ taught us, by loving God and our neighbor.” And he deliberately asks, “Do you clearly understand what you are undertaking?”

We hope and trust that parents will take this responsibility seriously. Parents are the first religious education teachers of their children! However, our parish community is eager and ready to assist parents in sharing and passing on our faith. We are now registering children for this year’s religious education program. This year we are considering ways of having parents more involved in the religious education of their children. Diane Klucka, our Faith Formation Director, will be sharing ideas with parents soon. We will likely be having a monthly session for parents where they can be aware of what their children are learning and find ways to reinforce that at home. We will likely be asking parents to cover some lessons at home during busy times for the parish, e.g., the Christmas holidays. (Events in the parish often make us miss class time.) We realize that sometimes parents don’t feel up to the task, but we are here to help and think that parents will actually find this a learning experience and renewing for them!

We also want to encourage parents and children to celebrate the Eucharist together. Since our classes will take place on Sundays after the 10:00 AM as very much part of the religious education program and process. Think of it this way. Religious education doesn’t start after mass; it starts with mass!

Thanks to our generous catechists and aids for helping share their love for the Lord and for passing on the faith to our precious children.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 27 Aug 2018 07:32:49 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-1-2-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-1-2-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersAugust 25-26, 2018Our parish has many wonderful groups that support the mission of the parish. This week — mainly because they are installing new officers at the Saturday evening Mass this weekend — I would like to give a “shout out,” a “high five,” and a big thank you to our Knights of Columbus, Duns Scotus Council 14928. Our Knights are very hard working and generous. Let me highlight just a few of the things they do in our parish and community: They raise funds for numerous charitable causes by helping at a Charity Poker Event several times a year; with those funds they support programs that assist poor children, a seminarian, and pro-life efforts; they collect food for the Franciscan Outreach at Kroger. The Knights have provided reading material that is helpful for families and spiritual development available in the gathering space. They organize our Blood drives. You can count on the Knights to be present and helpful at Parish events like the Fish Fries, May Crowning, the Parish Picnic, taking a turn leading the Lenten Stations of the Cross, and “coffee and donuts.” The Knights have a quarterly “Corporate Communion” and an annual retreat. They have an annual Lenten evening of reflection. They give a gift of a teddy bear to all newly baptized children. Their monthly meeting follows the monthly Benediction that closes our time of adoration, and many Knights are present for that. The Knights are everywhere, involved in everything, and you can always count on them! When I came here I joined the Knights because I saw how much they do for our parish community and I wanted to be supportive of them and in solidarity with them. Fr. Jeremy and Br. Phil are Knights as well. It is a brotherhood and fraternity of men dedicated to our Catholic faith.

Congratulations to our new officers, and thank you to all the Knights for your fidelity and generosity. New members are welcome. You can get more information by contacting Grand Knight Vern Newman. Thanks, guys!

I want to alert you that our annual “Time and Talent” Sunday will be a little earlier than in years past. We wanted to do it a few weeks earlier so that we can share in the energy that is usually present right after Labor Day when summer fades and we all get back to work in earnest! After all the masses on the weekend of September 8/9, representatives of our many commissions and ministries will be in the parish hall to give parishioners an opportunity to see all that is going on and to discern how to be part of the life of the parish. It is a concrete way to participate in the life of the parish, a way to “give back,” to be involved with and connected to our parish, other parishioners, and our mission. We hope you will take a few minutes that weekend to stop by. It would be great if every parishioner were able to participate in some fashion with one project.

The Pastoral Council had a Saturday morning retreat last week to discuss how we want to serve the parish this year. One of the ideas that emerged was deepening our “engagement.” It is a rich word, used in many ways. It speaks of a commitment, a relationship, a sense of growing together, ever of “gears” working together in harmony to move something forward. How can we deepen our communal engagement in this parish? How engaged are you? Could you serve, sing, usher, read, distribute communion? Could you take communion to the sick, help us feed the hungry and shelter the homeless, serve on a commission or committee, help us garden, clean the church, share our faith with the young, work with our middle and high schoolers? Would you be interested in the Knights of Columbus or the Legion of Mary? Could you help with hospitality or our community events like the Fish Fry, Taste of Transfiguration, coffee and donuts, etc? Could you help us have a presence on Social Media and let the world know the good things we have going on? The list could go on. Plan to stop by and see all that is going on and let us know how you will participate. We can probably match your skill and interest with parish needs!

I will be honest with you: I have been told that this weekend is only sparsely attended. There was some discussion as to whether or not we should continue to have this “opportunity to volunteer” weekend. I suggested we have it, because I did not want to send a message that we do not need parishioner involvement. Quite the opposite! We want you; we need you!

Thanks for the many ways you already serve your fellow parishioners and promote the mission of our Parish. May God bless us as we begin to “gear up” again for another year of life together.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Fri, 17 Aug 2018 05:24:52 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-18-19-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-18-19-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersAugust 11-12, 2018Even though we are in the hot August dog days of summer, here at the parish we are beginning to think about our fall programs.

One of our programs will be an educational and formational program for adults who wish to join the Church. We often call this the RCIA - for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. To the best of my knowledge we have no adult inquirer yet. Perhaps you know someone who might be interested in becoming Catholic or who is looking for a church home? Perhaps they have not practiced the faith for awhile or missed out on some of the sacraments. We can help! Could you take a risk of inviting them? It is really up to parishioners to invite and people are often just looking and waiting for someone to invite them. An invitation can make a huge difference and is just what they need. Last year we had no one to welcome at the Easter Vigil. Welcoming new members is one sign of our vitality! I hope we will have people this year! Please let us know if you have any questions!

We can also have a similar program geared to children of catechetical age. We call this the RCIC - for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Children. So if there are children who wish to become Catholic, we can help!

And speaking of kids, I hope that parents will enroll your children in our religious education program. It is important that parents provide this education for their children. Though our parish is not bursting with children, it does seem to me when I look out at the congregation on Sundays that we have more children who could be participating in the religious education program than we currently have participating. Our Faith Formation Director, Diane Klucka is also looking for catechists and aids to assist them.

We are looking forward to sharing our faith and unleashing the Gospel in these forums.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 09 Aug 2018 04:10:53 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-11-12-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-11-12-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersAugust 4-5, 2018Today we celebrate the patronal feast of our Parish, the feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord. When Jesus went up the mountain with Peter, James, and John, his divinity became manifest in a way that it usually was not. The experience apparently did not last long, but it was a profound moment of revelation (an epiphany) that I am sure the disciples never forgot. This was a moment of revelation when Jesus’ inner reality burst forth for them to see. They saw more deeply into him; they saw his full reality. In the Gospel story of the event, we hear of the Voice from the heavens that proclaimed that Jesus was “God’s Beloved,” and that his followers should “listen to him.” Peter, speaking no doubt for all of us, said, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here.”

This is a good day for us to celebrate the gift of Jesus, God’s Beloved, and to celebrate who we are because of Jesus, God’s Beloved. We, too, are God’s Beloved sons and daughters. It is so good that we are here, that we are a community of faith, able to share our faith and support one another on this journey.

Thank you for all you do to make this a vital and vibrant community. Each person is a gift; each brings something unique to our community of faith. May our inner reality of goodness also burst forth in our life together. It is indeed good that we are here.

As you hopefully know, we are now using a service called Flocknote that enables us to send emails and/or texts to parishioners. If you wish to receive them text good2Bhere to 84576. We took our joining phrase from Peter’s words today. Clever, huh?

I hope that you enjoy the parish picnic. It is just a nice time to celebrate and enjoy one another!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 30 Jul 2018 04:56:35 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-4-5-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-4-5-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJuly 28-29, 2018Last week I thanked those who clean the church, launder our altar linens, and weed our gardens. Today I would like to thank another group of generous parishioners whose ministry also often goes unnoticed. These generous ministers, on a rotating basis, lead weekly communion services at local nursing homes, usually on Saturday mornings. Since it is often difficult for the residents of nursing homes to get out and come to church, this is an opportunity for them to pray together, hear the Scriptures, receive communion, and be connected with the wider church.

Lakeland Center is served by Maher Shooni and Barry Parmeter, Peggy O’Dea and Colleen Bassett, Diane Aman, and Sr. Ellen Burke. Jane Loiselle and Evelyn Young recently served there, but are no longer able to do so.

Franklin Terrace is served by Sheila Fallon, Michael and Kay Sweeney, Gerald Rattenbury and Debbie Eagenwest.

Evergreen Nursing Home is served by Marge Ahern.

You probably noticed, too, that at most masses some people come forward after communion to take communion to family members or other homebound parishioners who cannot join us. We are grateful to these folks, too. If you know of someone who would like to receive communion (even temporarily) but is unable to join us, please let us know. Our parish is grateful to all these ministers for their kindness, compassion, and willingness to share the Good News and communion with those in local nursing homes. If anyone would like to be part of this ministry, you would be most welcome. Please contact Paula Hillman at the parish office.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 26 Jul 2018 06:50:42 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-28-29-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-28-29-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJuly 21-22, 2018There’s a saying: “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.” I don’t know if that is really true, because God can also be encountered in the messiness of life, but having clean clothes and a clean house is a wonderful thing. Transfiguration Parish is blessed to have some wonderful and generous people who regularly clean our church and bell tower, and launder our church linens. We have no “dust bunnies” in the sanctuary! Our purificators are always bright white and crisply ironed! I want to use this space today to thank them for all that they do and for this kindness to our parish. Because everything always looks so nice, this is something easily taken for granted; it can go unnoticed, and perhaps unappreciated. I wish to “sing” and thank these “unsung” people for all that they do.

The last couple of weeks we have invited anyone who likes to weed gardens to use that expertise here at the parish. Anne Gilmartin and Sue Burk have spent time making our garden and grounds more presentable. Thanks to Anne and Sue as well!

Thank you for your kindness and generosity! We are grateful, even if we forgot to acknowledge all that you do! I invite you to take a moment and thank them when you see them! If any other parishioner would like to be part of these projects, your passion for cleanliness would be greatly appreciated by all of us and would help lighten their burden as well. You can contact Paula Hillman at the parish office.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 16 Jul 2018 10:01:19 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-21-22-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-21-22-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJuly 15-16, 2018Two weeks ago I shared with you the first three goals and strategies from the plan endorsed by the Pastoral Council. Last week I shared goals 4-6. Today I share the last three goals, 7-9. These ideas emerged from the Listening Sessions and the discussion of my summary by the Commissions and Pastoral Council. We hope that these ideas will help us move toward a vibrant future for our Parish. Through we are still on the job during the summer, and will be giving these attention, we will give them fresh energy in the fall. We invite you to pray over these ideas and think about how you might be able to participate and promote these goals.

Goal 7: To evangelize and move from “maintenance to mission”

1) We will encourage parishioners to invite people to our church

(Staff/Evangelization/Worship)

2) We will implement the initiative and mandates of the AOD regarding Unleash the Gospel

(Staff/Evangelization)

3) We will establish a) intercessory and b) leadership teams as required by the AOD

(Staff/Evangelization/Worship)

4) We will participate in the Amazing Parish process

(Staff/Commissions)

Goal 8: We will promote religious and priestly vocations

1) We will celebrate the religious women who are parishioners

(Staff/Worship/Discipleship)

2) We will invite the Franciscan Vocation Director/Young Religious

(Staff/Worship)

3) We will invite parishioners to encourage particular people to consider a vocation

(Staff/Commissions)

4) The Friars will invite interested young men to prayer and dinner

(Friars)

Goal 9: To promote Social Justice committee

1) We will establish a Social Justice committee.

(Staff)

2) We will provide opportunities for advocacy that comes from the MCC or USCCB

(Staff/Social Justice)

3) We will have input on Catholic Social Teaching

(Staff/Education/Christian Service)

4) We will cooperate with ecumenical or interfaith actions for Social Justice

(Staff/Christian Service/Social Justice)

Thanks for all you are doing to make this a vibrant and vital parish community!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Tue, 10 Jul 2018 05:07:12 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-15-16-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-15-16-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJuly 7-8, 2018Last week I shared with you the first three goals and strategies from the plan endorsed by the Pastoral Council. Today I share goals 4-6. These ideas emerged from the Listening Sessions and the discussion of my summary by the Commissions and Pastoral Council. We hope that these ideas will help us move toward a vibrant future for our Parish. Though we are still on the job during the summer, and will be giving these attentions, we will give them fresh attention in the fall. We invite you to pray over these ideas and think about how you might be able to participate and promote these goals.

Goal 4: To strengthen our religious education programs

1) We will review the scheduling of RE classes for children.

(Staff/Education)

2) We will provide more opportunities for adult education.

(Staff/Education)

3) We will provide a program for those wishing to join the Church.

(Staff/Education)

4) We will provide a program for “returning” Catholics.

(Staff/Evangelization)

Goal 5: To respond to the needs of our diverse community.

1) We will continue “listening sessions” as needed or desired.

(Staff)

2) We will connect young adults with appropriate programs

(Staff/Evangelization/Education)

3) We will continue an outreach to Lawrence Technological University

(Staff/Worship/Evangelization/Education)

4) We will establish a “Senior Activities Committee”

(Staff/Discipleship)

Goal 6: To enrich and deepen our encounter with Lord

1) We will provide prayerful opportunities: a mission in Lent, retreat

At the Pastoral Council meeting last week we endorsed the Vision Statement, along with some goals and strategies which will help us move toward that vision of the future and guide us in practical and specific ways in the coming year. In the next few bulletins, I would like to share with you some of those goals and strategies. We invite you to pray over these plans to see how you might be a part of the process. Though we are still on the job during the summer, we will give these fresh attention in the fall.

Vision Statement

The Church of the Transfiguration will continue to be a vibrant Catholic community, rooted in Franciscan spirituality, where the joy of the Gospel of Jesus is lived, loved, and shared. We will be known for our responsiveness to the spiritual needs of our diverse community, for our engaging liturgy, for our hospitality, and for our continuous outreach to those who are poor.

Goal 1: To strengthen and deepen our spirit of hospitality

1) We will welcome visitors at liturgy.

(Ushers, Worship, Presiders)

2) We will have someone present at the information desk after each liturgy.

(Members of Pastoral Council and Commissions)

3) We will develop a welcome program for new parishioners.

(Staff/Discipleship)

4) We will have a social after the 8:00 and 10:00 Masses at least once a month.

(Members of Parish Commissions and Volunteers)

Goal 2: To raise the profile of the parish

1) We will establish a PR/Communications Committee.

(Staff/Discipleship)

2) We will invite a well-known “high profile” speaker.

(Staff/Education)

3) We will review the signs on the parish campus.

(Staff/Finance)

4) We will continue a presence on Social Media (E.g., Facebook, Flocknote)

(Staff/PR Committee)

Goal 3: To deepen our sense of community

1) We will have parishioners participate in preparation for baptism and marriage.

(Staff)

2) We will have a guest sign in book in the gathering space and follow up.

If you are not Catholic and are interested in exploring that possibility, (or know of someone who might be interested) or if you are a baptized Catholic but did not receive First Eucharist and/or Confirmation, or if your child is seven years or older and needs to celebrate any or all of the sacraments of initiations (Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation) we would love to help you! In the fall we hope to have programs that can respond to all these needs. We call these RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) and RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation of Children). Usually these programs run throughout the year, culminating in the celebration of these sacraments at the Easter Vigil. This is how the church and parish grows. Without new members, we will be a parish in decline. Please let your friends, neighbors, and family members know of these opportunities. You can get more information from our Director of Faith Formation, Diane Klucka. If you have any questions or concerns (e.g, second marriages or marriages outside the church,) I am also happy to talk with you.

On a similar note, if any young man is curious about Franciscan religious life, we friars would love to talk with you and invite you for prayer and dinner. No obligation or commitment, just conversation - food for discernment. It is not for everyone, but it is a great way of life!

You are welcome to stop by the friary after all the masses this weekend for an open house. Thanks for stopping by.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Fri, 22 Jun 2018 07:09:49 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-23-24-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-23-24-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJune 16-17, 2018First communions, confirmations, graduations, weddings, ordinations! While we begin to slow down a bit for summer, there is still a lot that goes on during this time of year. A lot of wonderful things to celebrate and remember. Last month we honored our mothers, and today we celebrate our fathers. Thank you, dads, stepdads, and granddads for all the encouragement and support you give us through the years. Thanks for the wisdom you share with us. Please know that we are grateful, even when we forget to say it.

My own father passed away in 1972 when I was 19 years old. I cherish the memories of my childhood and adolescence with him, but I do regret that I was not able to have an adult relationship with him. It’s telling that the thing I remember most about my ordination day is my mom taking me aside before the ceremony and telling me that she knew dad would be proud of me. Like many men of that time, my dad was quiet and did not share feelings like that freely. I do know he was and is proud of me, and somehow that memory reminds me of how important it was to me.

I would like to remind you of a couple of unrelated things:

On June 23/24, the friars will have an open house at the friary after all the masses. We hope that you will be able to stop by for a few minutes and see our home. Many of you have probably not been in it for a while.

At the 12:00 noon Mass on Sunday, June 24, we will honor our high school and college graduates. If you have not let us know you will be coming, please do so this week.

The parish now has a service called Flocknote which enables to send texts and/or emails to parishioners about parish events. We have used it only a couple of times as I learn how to navigate it. If you did not receive recent emails announcing our Vacation Bible School for kids (July 16-20) and our 2 session Vacation Bible School for Adults (Mondays, June 25 and July 2) and wish to receive similar messages, please text good2Bhere to 84576.

Happy summer!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Fri, 15 Jun 2018 06:29:59 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-16-17-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-16-17-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJune 9-10, 2018In a recent bulletin article, I told you about the discernment process going among the OFM Franciscan Friars in the United States. Currently there are seven OFM Franciscan Provinces across the United States. For several years six of the provinces have been discussing the wisdom and possibility of becoming one province. Last week, each of those provinces, on the same day, met in what we call a Chapter to cast a historic vote. All six provinces voted YES to the proposal that we ask our leadership in Rome to form us into one province.

The next step is that our General Minister and Council will appoint a friar to visit us and assure them that this is a good decision, that all the t’s have been crossed and i’s dotted, and that we are ready to make this move. The whole process is likely to take 3-5 years until we are officially one, but we will begin right away on the necessary work of unifying our policies, practices, and procedures.

So what does this mean for your local friars and this parish? Probably not too much at first. Most of the changes will be on the administrative level in the beginning. Over time, friars will be able to consider a wider array of ministry opportunities. When the time comes for a change, I could consider a ministry not now available to me, and friars from other provinces could consider ministry here. We hope that this process will energize and revitalize us as we engage in the process of getting to know new brothers. Less friars will be involved in administration (since there will be one provincial, council, and provincial staff offices, not six different ones) and available for other ministries. Our younger friars will have more peers, and we will be able to speak and act with one voice, not six. We will likely have to choose a different city for our headquarters. There will be changes for the friars, and letting go of the familiar is not easy, but we trust the Lord will bless this process.

This is an exciting time for us. We believe the Lord is guiding us. Even with this decision, as you probably know, we friars are getting older and fewer. If we do not get more friars, we will be faced with difficult decisions about where we minister. We would welcome young men from the parish to join us in this adventure. Anyone want to join us? It is a great way to spend your life! And if you are not a young man, please encourage some one to consider this possibility.

I also want to let you know that the friars will be hosting an Open House at the Friary after all the masses on the weekend of June 23/24. Stop by for a few minutes; have a cup of coffee; see the Friary. Thanks for your encouragement and support.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Wed, 06 Jun 2018 04:44:21 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-9-10-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-9-10-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJune 2-3, 2018For the last several months, the Pastoral Council has been discussing goals for the coming few years and strategies that we might use to move toward those goals. We first spent some time thinking about what kind of future we want to move toward. To that end, we decided to write a “vision statement” to complement our “mission statement.” A vision statement tries to describe the future that we want to create, with God’s grace. So we have both a vision of the future and a mission that tries to bring about that vision. The Council approved the following vision statement:

The Church of the Transfiguration will continue to be a vibrant

Catholic community, rooted in Franciscan spirituality, where the

joy of the Gospel of Jesus is lived, loved, and shared. We will be

well known for our responsiveness to the spiritual needs of our

diverse community; our engaging liturgy; our hospitality; and

continuous outreach to the poor.

For the time being, our mission statement remains the same, although the Archdiocese is asking all parishes to review their mission statements in light of the values in Archbishop Vigneron’s Pastoral Letter, Unleash the Gospel. We will be addressing that in the coming months. Our mission statement is:

We are a Franciscan Body of Christ embracing all people through liturgy and service.

The next step is articulate some concrete steps and strategies that we will use to implement our mission and make our vision a reality. Stay tuned! All of this, of course, presumes our good will and the generous cooperation of all. Thank you to all who work so hard to make this parish a vibrant community of faith and service!

The mission of the Archdiocese and the parish, of course, needs support and resources. As you may recall, our goal for the Archdiocesan Annual Appeal this year is $46,192. So far, we have 73% of that amount or $33,954 pledged! THANK YOU! We still need $12,238 to meet our goal. (If we do not meet our goal, we will have to take the amount from savings, which we would rather not do.) We contacted 464 households and 137 responded so far. Would those parishioners who have not yet contributed consider a gift soon? We usually have about 200 of our almost 500 households participate.

Thank you for all that you do to support the vision and mission of the Archdiocese and the Parish.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 31 May 2018 05:10:25 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-2-3-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-2-3-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersMay 26-27, 2018As we celebrate today the feast of the Holy Trinity, we remember that our God is RELATIONSHIP, Father, Son, and Spirit, living in love with one another, Since we are created in the image and likeness of God, we too, are called to live in love, in right relationship with one another.

It is a joy (and a fitting day) to celebrate the first of many communions for the following children today:

Bryan N. Atemnkeng

Isaac Cousino

Daniel Hughes

Chidubem Nwamba

Raphael I. Onuoha

Bridget Smith

Their first communion gives us an opportunity to reflect on this wonderful gift of our God. Receiving communion implies living in communion, living in harmony and right relationship with our Triune God all the time. God gives us this gift of the Body and Blood of Jesus to help us live in love and with Him and with one another. God strengthens us for the journey of faith. Let’s pray that God will bless these children, and all of us, with an abiding sense of his presence.

Many, many thanks to Sharon Laing for preparing them to celebrate the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist!

We are remembering and celebrating today the gift of God’s Holy Spirit to the disciples and to us. Since the Feast of Pentecost is often called the birthday of the Church, let me wish you all a happy birthday! This idea echoes St. Peter’s sentiment in his first letter: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Pt 1:3) I like the insight that Easter is a time of birth, a birth to a “living hope.” The disciples had gathered behind locked doors because they were afraid that what happened to Jesus would happen to them; they feared losing their lives. The paradox is that what ultimately happened to Jesus in the resurrection did indeed happen to them. With the gift of the Spirit they were enlivened and became courageous, unlocking the doors, going out and making bold proclamation that Jesus had been raised, and that he is indeed the Lord of life.

When I was doing campus ministry at Rice University in Houston many years ago, the students put on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. To advertise the play, they made T shirts with a line from one of the characters, Friar Laurence. Witnessing a dramatic transformation he exclaimed, “Holy St. Francis, what a change is here!” (Because I was a friar, they gave me a T shirt!) I always remember that line when I think of this dramatic transformation in the life of those first disciples, a transformation which resulted from the gift of the Spirit.

I think if we are to celebrate this feast well, we do not just remember what happened to the disciples long ago, but open ourselves to that same transformation and en-courage-ment as well. Can I unlock any doors I am hiding behind? Can I somehow make bold proclamation of the mighty acts of God?

All three friars will be going to Cincinnati for a couple of days next week for an extraordinary meeting we call a “chapter.” For the last several years the OFM Franciscans of the United States have been in a discernment process about possible restructuring of our Provinces. Currently there are seven provinces across the US. There is a proposal that six of these Provinces become one. All six of these Provinces are meeting at the same time and will vote on this proposal, which is a recommendation to the Order’s leadership in Rome, because they make the final decision about restructuring Provinces. If the proposal passes, it will take a number of years to implement. (This will not necessarily change things here, but more how we govern and organize ourselves.) Please pray that we will not be afraid, but courageous, and seek God’s Spirit and be open to transformation and change, if that is what God wants for us.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 14 May 2018 04:28:49 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-19-20-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-19-20-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersMay 12-13, 2018In our country today we honor our Mothers; so Happy Mother’s Day to all our Mothers, Stepmothers, and Grandmothers. Some of us also have women who might not be our biological mothers, but they have “adopted” us and “mothered” us. We are so very grateful for the life you have given us all. Thank you for your unconditional love, your example, your presence and support throughout our lives.

In the Church we also celebrate the return of Jesus, through his Ascension to his Father in heaven. I wondered if there might be any connection between these two celebrations - Mother’s Day and Ascension? Maybe St. Francis can help us with that.

Last week I wrote about St. Francis’ devotion to Mary and shared a prayer he wrote. That made me think of another of his writings, one we call a Letter to all the Faithful. There are two versions of this letter, but this is from his first. In that letter St. Francis suggests that all the faithful of the church (men, women, religious, lay, ordained, etc.) are called to be “mothers” of the Lord, and “give birth” to him. We are to be a dwelling place for the Lord, and bring him forth into our world. Let me share his words with you:

How happy and blessed are these men and women when they do these things, and persevere in doing them because

“the Spirit of the Lord will rest upon them,” and the Lord will make “His home and dwelling place with them.”

They are the children of the Heavenly Father whose works they do. They are the spouses, brothers and mothers of Our Lord Jesus

Christ. We are his spouses when the faithful soul is united by the Holy Spirit with Our Lord Jesus Christ. We are brothers when we

do the will of the Father who is in Heaven. We are mothers when we bear Him in our hearts and bodies with divine love and with

pure and sincere consciences, and we give birth to Him through a holy life which should enlighten others because of our example.

Jesus has ascended and returned to his Father, but we were not left orphaned, in fact, St. Francis sees us as still intimately connected to Jesus. He is still present among us and has given us his Spirit, and we will celebrate the feast of Pentecost next Sunday. With God’s spirit working through us, we are all mothers of Jesus, bringing him forth in our world through a holy way of life. So if you will allow me to with ALL the mothers of Jesus, that is, all Christians, a blessed day. I look forward to celebrating the gift of God’s spirit with you next Sunday!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 14 May 2018 03:44:32 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-12-13-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-12-13-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersMay 5-6, 2018We have finally reached the lovely month of May, the month of Mary, of Mothers, of First Communions (on May 27). The weather warms, the trees, and flowers burst forth. It is a great time of year. Spring! Life! Growth! Many of us will be planting our gardens of both flowers and veggies. (I hope to have at least a few tomato plants myself; there is nothing like a homegrown tomato!)

This Sunday after the noon Mass we will have a May crowning in the grotto to begin the month dedicated to Mary. It is coordinated by our Legion of Mary. St. Francis had great devotion to Mary. In fact, he wrote a beautiful poem/prayer called the Salutation of the Blessed Virgin. I’d like to share it with you so that you can pray it yourself. I personally like his calling her “the virgin made church” and his “palace, tabernacle, home, and robe.” Interesting images to ponder. Since she carried in her very body, she became a “church” and like the Church community and Church buildings, a “dwelling place” for the Lord. This is what he wrote:

Hail, O Lady, Holy Queen,

Mary, holy Mother of God:

You are the virgin made church

and the one chosen by the most holy Father in heaven

whom He consecrated with His most holy beloved Son

and with the Holy Spirit the Paraclete,

in whom there was and is

all the fullness of grace and every good.

Hail, His Palace!

Hail, His Tabernacle!

Hail, His Home!

Hail, His Robe!

Hail, His Servant!

Hail, His Mother!

And, hail all you holy virtues

which through the grace and light of the Holy Spirit

are poured into the hearts of the faithful

so that from their faithless state

you may make them faithful to God.

May the Virgin who was made into a church and dwelling place for the Lord teach us how to do the same.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Wed, 02 May 2018 03:28:11 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-5-6-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-5-6-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersApril 28-29, 2018Tuesday, May 1 is the feast of St. Joseph the Worker. This year it has also been proclaimed as National Brothers Day, a day to honor and celebrate the vocation of religious brothers. The Church of the Transfiguration is privileged to have Br. Phil Wilhelm, and I invite you to pray for him and thank him for all he does on this day. Br. Phil is an incredibly diligent worker: he works very hard in the Franciscan Outreach Program, spending most of Monday and Wednesday distributing food to our guests. (Br. Ed Gura from our Franciscan fraternity at St. Aloysius Parish downtown also comes to help on Wednesdays in the Outreach Program.) Br. Phil is a Knight of Columbus and assists in their activities as well as helping out liturgically and in the religious education program. Br. Phil also assists with the Legion of Mary. Br. Phil likes to clean (for which I am grateful), and often shops and prepares meals for the friars on weekends. (Well, he and I pretty much take turns cooking on weekends, because I enjoy preparing a meal too once in a while.) Br. Phil is a great gift to our Franciscan fraternity. He possesses the Franciscan virtues of simplicity and joy, and is a man of prayer; I see him daily praying before the Blessed Sacrament in our friary chapel. It was a difficult adjustment to return to the US after 44 years of service in the Philippines, which he loved, but he has made the transition and continues to inspire me.

The vocation of a religious brother is a noble one. Brothers are full members of the fraternity, taking the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. They serve in many capacities (e.g., teachers, social workers, parochial, hospital chaplaincy, etc.). We like to say that all friars are brothers, but some of the friars are called to ordained ministry, some are not. Since Brothers are not ordained, they do not preside over the sacraments of the church. Sometimes people will ask how they can tell the difference between a brother and priest and “why they didn’t go all the way to the priesthood.” The habits of priests and brothers are exactly the same, and they didn’t become priests because that was not their call. It is in no way a vocation less honorable than a vocation to the priesthood. Just a different call. In our Province about one third of the friars are brothers. Br. Phil, thank you for your witness, and blessings on National Brothers Day!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Wed, 02 May 2018 03:26:56 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-28-29-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-28-29-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersApril 21-22, 2018I wrote about this earlier (because I didn’t want you to be too surprised when I left), but the time for my study pilgrimage to the Holy Land is fast approaching. You may recall that I wrote that when I finished my role as Provincial Minister, I was granted a sabbatical from June 2017 to June 2018. This was to be a time of rest and renewal, updating and preparation for another ministry. At the Chapter in May when I was finishing my term, Fr. Bill Farris was elected Provincial Vicar and there was a need for a pastor here at Transfiguration. I very happily adjusted my sabbatical plans so that I could come and be with you, but our Province Leadership did suggest that I keep my plans to participate in a Holy Land study pilgrimage sponsored by Catholic Theological Union, our school of theology in Chicago, from April 29 through May 19. The study pilgrimage will be led by Bible Scholar, Sr. Laurie Brink, OP. I have been taking an online course to prepare for this adventure since last February. I will be leaving after the 8:00 a.m. Mass on Sunday, April 29 and will return on Saturday evening, May 19, in time to celebrate Pentecost with you on May 20. I will be visiting biblical sites in Israel, Turkey, and Greece. We will be studying the Scriptures in the place where they were written! In my absence, Fr. Dennet will again be helping with masses, and I am grateful for his assistance. Please pray for me during this time, and I promise to bring you along with me in spirit as I visit the holy sites and study the Scriptures.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 19 Apr 2018 04:00:01 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-21-22-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-21-22-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersApril 14-15, 2018Next Saturday evening we will enjoy the annual “Taste of Transfiguration.” I am really looking forward to this celebration, and have heard what a great opportunity it is to acknowledge and celebrate the wonderful diversity of our parish. We have members from many different countries and cultures, and will share food from our various traditions. I am German-Irish in background. In my family, we grew up on something called “goetta,” and I absolutely love it. It is very popular in the Cincinnati area, even in restaurants. Goetta is pinhead oatmeal mixed with pork sausage and hamburger and spices. After cooking it for several hours, it is usually placed in a bread pan, refrigerated, then sliced and fried for breakfast with eggs. These days people are experimenting with “goetta burgers” and “goetta pizza,” and each summer we have a “goetta-fest” on the river. I think it was a German peasant way of “stretching” expensive meat, by mixing it with grain. It is a comfort food for me!

When I came to the friars, many of whom are also German in heritage since we were invited to Cincinnati from Austria (the Tyrol) to minister to German speaking immigrants who were flooding into the country in the 1840’s, I learned of another German food: pea soup and knoedells. For this you pour thick pea soup over sauerkraut and knoedells (which are fried balls of stuffing or dressing, about the size of a meatball.) It sounds awful, but is actually quite good. Many friars eat this on Good Friday; I am not sure why, but it isn’t a penance!

The food we grew up on often becomes a “comfort food.” It reminds us of home and family. Sharing this with one another is a way of sharing something important, and extends our sense of family. Sharing food is always a bonding experience, and it is no wonder that Jesus chose eating and drinking as a sacramental sign and as a way of manifesting and extending his presence. One of my bible teachers said jokingly that “you can practically eat your way through the Gospels,” because there are so many stories of Jesus eating and sharing a meal with his followers and disciples. He ate with friends, Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, with tax collectors and sinners, with his disciples. He invited himself to dine with Zacchaeus. He fed thousands with a few loaves and fishes. The disciples on the road to Emmaus recognized the risen Lord “in the breaking of the bread.”

I look forward to sharing this meal with you next Saturday and with many more meals around the Eucharistic table of the Lord. Both of those give me comfort!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Tue, 10 Apr 2018 07:22:51 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-14-15-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-14-15-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersApril 7-8, 2018Easter is such a wonderful event that it cannot be contained in just one day. Easter is one of our feasts that has an octave (8 days) April 1-8, and a season of 50 days (April 1—May 20) for us to explore the meaning of Christ raised from the dead. The message of Easter is meant to “overflow” and fill the earth. Today we focus on God’s great Divine Mercy. Like the disciples gathered behind locked doors, the Lord still stands in our midst and gives us the Spirit, and speaks words of peace and forgiveness. Like Thomas, may we profess our faith and trust in the Lord and God of that mercy!

Because March 25, the usual day to celebrate the feast of the Annunciation, was Palm Sunday, the feast of the Annunciation is transferred this year to April 9. You note, no doubt, that the Annunciation is usually celebrated 9 months before Christmas, but I have it on good authority that Christmas will not be similarly postponed this year. I guess Jesus will just be a little premature!

I’d also like to remind you of several upcoming opportunities and events meant to deepen our understanding of and connection to one another and the Lord. I would be thrilled if you would be willing to participate in these.

There will be a “Listening Session” for parishioners from African countries today at 1:15 in the parish meeting room. There will be another next Sunday (April 15) for parishioners from countries of Asia. I chose these because it seems we have significant numbers of peoples from those areas. A third will be held for parents of pre-teen children on Thursday, April 26, at 6:15 pm at the home of a parishioner. These will be an opportunity for me to hear about the particular needs, experiences, and hopes of these groups of parishioners so that I and the parish can serve you better. Please call the office to let us know if you will be coming so that we can make adequate preparations.

Please take advantage of the opportunity to have your photo taken for the Parish Pictorial Directory. So far we are at about 25% participation. I see this as an opportunity for us to get to know one another and to deepen our spirit of community.

The Parish now has the ability to send out periodic group emails or texts through a service called Flocknote. You can sign yourself up by texting good2Bhere to 84576 and entering your information. We don’t intend to pester you, but this will enable us to remind you of events, send inspirational messages, or even inform you of cancellations. Our sign up phrase is an allusion to what the apostles said to Jesus at the Transfiguration, “Lord it is good for us to be here.”

Earth Day is Sunday, April 22. Pope Francis has recently reminded us in his encyclical Laudato Si that the dearth is our common home, and stewardship of the earth is part of our Christian calling. Care for the environment is near and dear to all with a Franciscan spirit, since St. Francis too, recognized everyone and everything is related as brother and sister, and celebrated “Brother Sun and Sister Moon”! How might we as a parish honor this privilege and task?

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 05 Apr 2018 05:00:46 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-7-8-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-7-8-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersApril 1, 2018When I was a kid, Doris Day’s song Que sera, sera was popular. In the song, the singer asks her mother about the future, (will I be pretty?; will I be rich?) and her mother answers, “que sera, sera, whatever will be, will be; the future’s not ours to see; que sera, sera; what will be, will be.” (Can you hear it in your head? I can; I can remember my mother singing at home in a very 1950’s vignette in my memory. Interesting lyrics to ponder. While they might encourage a stance of openness and receptivity to what will be, and an unnecessary need to control everything, in some ways they also seem to be quite fatalistic: there is nothing we can do about the future; it is all out of our hands; whatever will be, will be, good or bad. You can’t make a difference one way or the other.

Somehow I don’t think life is quite that defeatist. Though obviously much is beyond our control, and mysterious and sometimes bad things do happen without our knowing why, I also think that we can contribute to shaping and creating the future. This is especially for people who cooperate with God’s grace. We have a future full of hope, as Jeremiah recognizes: For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! Plans to give you a future full of hope. (Jer 29:11) A future full of hope is a special gift to those with Easter faith. Peter says as well in his first letter: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead… (1 Peter 1:3) It is Easter that really explains why we are people with a living, vibrant hope! Easter causes hope to be born and live in us. So happy birthday to you - and the hope that lives in you - this Easter!

A few years ago I read John Allen’s latest book The Future Church: How Ten Trends are Revolutionizing the Catholic Church (Doubleday, 2009). In the book he identifies what he senses to be the most important currents shaping the church, and based on his experience as a journalist, tries to look down the line at how they might play out in the future. In each chapter, Allen first identifies what the trend is (“what’s happening?”) and then tries to suggest “what it means” by identifying “near-certain consequences,” then “probable consequences” and finally “possible consequences,” with each section carrying a little less certitude. I have found this to be one of the most fascinating books I have read in a long time. It is fascinating to think about what the contours of the rest of the twenty-first century might look like in the church, our parish, and even in secular society. Where is it all going? What will be? As we look into our personal crystal balls, we may feel fear or we may feel hope. I personally think hope is quite in order, especially as we celebrate Easter and think about the certain consequences of Jesus raised from the dead.

As we move into the future of our parish and our church, and as we make the little and big decisions that are part of our everyday lives, it is my hope that we will actively contribute to promoting God’s Kingdom and unleashing the Gospel; I hope we will shape the future with our missionary charism. I think we can help offer hope to our Church and our world. I know we can make a difference, just as those who have gone before us have. I hope we can exude a sense of joy and confidence in God’s great mercy and grace which the resurrection reveals. I think Easter has consequences which can and should be evident in our lives. Easter blessings to you and your family!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Tue, 27 Mar 2018 03:24:31 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-1-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-1-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersBlessing of Easter BasketsAt 1:00 p.m. on Holy Saturday, we will once again be blessing food baskets. Since not everyone is familiar with this beautiful Eastern European custom, a word of explanation is offered here.

A particular symbolism is attached to each food placed in the traditional Easter basket. The Pascha, or Easter Bread, represents Christ, “the Living Bread.” It is usually a round loaf decorated with a braid and cross. Meat, representing the joy and abundance of Easter, gives us strength. It is usually ham, sausage, or veal. The cooked, decorated egg represents the Resurrection. Just as new life came from the tomb of Christ, new life springs forth from the dormant egg. Butter, in the shape of a lamb, represents Christ, the Lamb of God who was sacrificed so that all may have new life. Salt, which preserves food, reminds us that Christ’s teaching preserves our eternal life. Horseradish, mixed with grated red beets, represents the Passion of Christ. The bitter-sweet mixture reminds us of Christ’s sufferings, but the sugar in it sweetens the memory because of the Resurrection.

There are other foods that may be found in the basket in addition to these basics. Most of them could also be found at the first Seder (evening) meal of a Jewish home during Passover. In fact, many of them are so prescribed in the Old Testament.

Whether you choose to follow the tradition or make up a basket of your own items, please plan on joining us at 1:00 p.m. on Holy Saturday. The brief ceremony is a wonderful addition to Holy Week.

Diane Aman

]]>Thu, 22 Mar 2018 05:16:35 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/blessing-of-easter-baskets
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/blessing-of-easter-basketsSharon MyersSharon MyersWhat We Did During Lent 3/25/2018What We Did During Lent: Lasting Memories of Lent

Most members in my family abstained from candy during Lent. My share of the little candy we got I put in a cigar box and put it under my bed. Easter was a sweet time.

We girls (five or fewer) made the trek across the field to Duns Scotus on Saturdays. It was confession time and in Lent we made the way of the cross. The sisters at school had made sure we knew what we were doing. I realize now how much I liked the quiet church.

But then there was the tennebrae. Many candles were lit and as the service continued one candle was snuffed out at intervals. The friars sang sad and beautifully at each interval. When the last candle was snuffed out, so were the electric lights. Immediately there was a loud clap of thunder (the friars had beat the bench with their books). We were stunned. Jesus had died.

The Tre Ore service on Friday was not to be missed. We girls took seats in the balcony where we could see everything. The pinnacle was the lamentations. Some friars stood near the alter, faced the congregation and in four voices, and with utter sorrow sang one verse after the other. I was transfixed each time. I still hear these voices in my mind each holy week.

MS

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What We Did During Lent

A final contribution of “What We Did During Lent’ Series sponsored by Fr. Jeremy. Thank You to all those who participated in our Lenten ‘What We Did During Lent’ Series.

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Thu, 22 Mar 2018 05:13:33 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/what-we-did-during-lent-3-25-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/what-we-did-during-lent-3-25-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersMarch 24-25, 2018Have you ever had the honor of sitting with and talking with someone who was preparing for their final Passover, i.e., preparing for death? It is an awesome privilege when people share their hopes, fears, and faith at that moment of life. Often times we don’t talk openly about dying. When someone says he or she is dying, in our discomfort we often avoid and deny it, saying something like, “Oh, don’t say that, it will be OK.” A better response might be, “Tell me about it.” Every once in a while someone does want to share their thoughts and feelings, perhaps to take care of some unfinished business, or say their final goodbyes. There opportunities are one of the many privileged moments in being a priest.

When I was in the seminary, one of our friars was diagnosed with cancer. Fr. Bill was one of the kindest men I have ever met. One of my fond memories is how every morning he would walk from table to table offering each person a banana. When it became clear that nothing more could be done, he said that he wanted to die at home, and not in the hospital or nursing home. As he neared the end, we took turns sitting with him 24/7, for an hour at a time. We would sit with him as he rested. Sometimes we were silent, other times we would pray with him, read Scripture, or he would talk with us about his life, his memories, and his coming death. I remember him telling me that he knew he would be gone in a few days, and he was right. One evening a couple of days later, it was my turn to sit with him, but he died ten minutes before I came. As the word spread through the house his room began to fill up with friars. We prayed, sang, told stories, and even laughed as we celebrated his life while we waited for the funeral director to come for his body. I remember it felt odd when the funeral director put a sheet over his face. We didn’t need to hide his face or cover up his death. We had been sitting with him, face uncovered, for two hours! His death was not something he or we kept hidden; it was something he embraced and shared.

Fr. Bill’s death was not something that happened to him; his life was not taken from him; it was something that he did with consciousness and faith. He freely, actively, and eagerly handed his life over to the Lord. It was his final act of prayer and surrender, which was prepared for by the kind of life he lived. His death was a gift he shared with all the members of the community.

This week we are privileged to share another death, the death of Jesus. We join him as he enters Jerusalem, and we enter a sacred time. We sit with him at the table as He washes feet and breaks the bread and shares the wine, giving them new and deeper meaning and significance. We spend time with him in the garden and walk the way of the cross. We stand at the foot of the cross with Mary and the disciples. What a great privilege for us to share this death, too. He teaches us how to live; he teaches us how to die. May you have a blessed week.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 22 Mar 2018 05:09:09 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-24-25-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-24-25-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersMarch 17-18, 2018The last official census of the parish was made just after the merger and creation of the new parish in 2010. It is recommended that parishes update their records every few years, so we will be doing that soon. We will be asking ALL parishioners to fill out the registration form, even if you are a long time parishioner or even have just recently come to the parish and filled out a form. Having up to date records helps us to serve you better and to stay in contact with you and we know that information changes from time to time. Sometimes people think they are registered, but we do not have your contact information.

The form will give you the opportunity to express interest in some of the things that are happening in the parish. These list (mostly) things that are already happening in the parish. But we are open to growth and new ideas as things move forward. If you have an idea and energy to help make it happen, let us know. It is always good if the service fits with some talent or skill you have. Marking an item will not commit you to participation, but will allow us to share more information with you about that ministry or opportunity. Please mark the item even if you are already participating, since that will allow us to have complete lists.

We are sometimes in need of various skills for “ad hoc” projects (e.g., computer, website, office help, photography, cleaning, fix up projects, driving, gardening, telephoning, etc.) Let us know of your talents and skills. If you are willing to share them with us on an occasional basis, we can call you when a need arises.

Please be assured that all the information you share is kept confidential and for pastoral use only. It is only shared with appropriate persons in the parish.

We have recently become aware of a service that will allow us to send periodic texts and/or emails to all parishioners, enabling us to remind you from time to time of an upcoming event, send an inspirational message, or to notify you of a cancellation. We hope you will allow us to contact you. We promise not to be too pesty! You can join right now by texting good2Bhere to 84576. (The joining message is an adaption of the apostles’ exclamation at the Transfiguration, “Lord it is good that we are here.”) It is good that we are here together! We are grateful for all the people that makeup this wonderful parish, and grateful to have you as part of our parish family. Thanks for sharing yourself, your time, your talent, and your resources.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Fri, 16 Mar 2018 07:46:43 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-17-18-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-17-18-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersWhat We Did During Lent 3/18/2018What We Did During Lent: “Lasting Values”

I come from a large and very Catholic family, and growing up I felt my parents were “too religious;” during lent; this feeling was especially common for all the children in our family. We were allowed meat only once a day and not at all on Wednesdays and Fridays during the week. We went to Benediction every Sunday afternoon and “confession” (Reconciliation) every Saturday. We were expected to give up candy and all sweets, including desserts (which my mother followed completely, including family birthdays.) And perhaps most difficult of all for us, we had to be home for dinner together, and then pray the rosary every evening after dinner, while kneeling in the living room of our home (no phone calls, no talking, no squirming, no restlessness or discomfort being evident.) While we chaffed at these “rules,” I now see the lasting values of these things, especially the value of self-discipline that we learned; greater than that, however, came the love of God.

JL

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What We Did During Lent

We invite you to share in the bulletin special Lent practices of your family now or in the past. We are parishioners of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We can be inspired by each other. Limit is about 200 words. Give or email to Fr. Jeremy your Lenten stories. frjeremyh@gmail.com

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Fri, 16 Mar 2018 07:44:48 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/what-we-did-during-lent-3-18-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/what-we-did-during-lent-3-18-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersMarch 10-11, 2018Inserted into last week’s bulletin was the summary of what I heard in the listening sessions held at the end of January. This summary has been shared with the Pastoral Council, the four Commissions (Worship, Education, Christian Service, and Discipleship) and now with the whole parish.

Each commission has been asked to reflect on the summary, as well as their own experience and mission, and suggest 3 - 5 goals that might become part of a Pastoral Plan that will guide the parish in the coming years. The Pastoral Council will try to take all the information that has been suggested and work with it in the coming months, deciding what goals and specific strategies we will choose for the near future. Obviously we can’t do everything, (so every idea expressed can’t be part of the plan), but hopefully we can find some consensus about the most significant issues and move toward some realistic yet challenging goals that will deepen our relationship with the Lord and strengthen our life in community. The Archbishop has given us some goals in his Pastoral letter Unleash the Gospel and they will certainly become part of the plan.

You are welcome to send your suggestions to me my March 15 (scheelerj@transgifsfld.org) so that your ideas can be considered as part of the mix. (Please be brief and as concrete as you can be.)

By using the information from the listening sessions and your ideas, we hope that the Pastoral Plan will be grounded in your lived experience and will be a response to your felt concerns. Please pray for God’s blessing on this process of discernment and decision.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Fri, 09 Mar 2018 02:28:28 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-10-11-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-10-11-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersWhat We Did During Lent 3/11/2018What We Did During Lent: Pray for Faith and Wait for God

About 25 years ago, a member of my extended family was going through a very difficult time, it was like life and death for him. Seeing the bad shape he was in, I asked God how could He let this happen to my relative? What vague sense of faith I had in God seemed to vanish going through this.

Still, I was concerned enough now that I had nobody to pray to, so I went to confession and told the priest that I lost faith in God. The elderly priest wisely told me that his faith was shaken a couple of times before, too, and what he did was pray for faith and wait for God. He advised me to do the same, and I did.

I continued to feel nothing for or from God and could hardly pray since I did not believe in His love. However, a few months later, as I was cooking in the kitchen one morning, suddenly an overwhelming sense of love overcame me. It was just pure love, with no explanation, no reason, no understanding on my part, all I know is that it was God’s immense love and it brought me to tears.

I was so overwhelmed that I wanted to note the date and I went to write it on the wall calendar, only to find that it was the first day of the Lenten season that year.

That was my first experience of His love. Later experiences came after much painful purification and understanding of the necessity of our suffering.

Looking back, it seems like He was foretelling to me the message of love and suffering, all mingling together - His powerful love He let me feel on the first day of Lent, which later became the theme of my relationship with Him.

MN

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What We Did During Lent

We invite you to share in the bulletin special Lent practices of your family now or in the past. We are parishioners of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We can be inspired by each other. Limit is about 200 words.

Last Friday was March 2. In my family, and in my personal life, that is a very special day. It was/is my Mom’s birthday! Were she on earth today she would be 101 years old. Last year was the big 100! It was also the anniversary of my Dad’s death; he died on Mom’s birthday 45 years ago in 1972 when I was 19 years old. (Not a very nice birthday gift, is it?) Actually for years after his death Mom had really great birthday celebrations because we kids knew it was a difficult day for her. The day is kind of “liminal” for me and my family. Liminal is a fancy word, but it means, according to one dictionary, “occupying a position at, or on both sides of, a boundary or threshold.” In liminal times seeming opposites coincide. March 2 is such a day for me; it is a day with a special kind of “energy” for me; a day where life and death are held together in a kind of mysterious relationship. Both are present in my mind and heart at the same time. I am grateful for the birthday of my Mom; I am still saddened by the death of my Dad, and both at the same time!

At this point in my life I find myself grateful for this day and this mystery. Liminality is important in spirituality. This coincidence of seeming opposites actually teaches me about the Paschal Mystery, the dying and rising of Jesus that is so central to our faith and to this season of Lent. It speaks to the necessity of dying in order to be born. “Unless a grain of wheat falls to the earth and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat. But if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:24)

Some of you may remember that on the feast of the Epiphany last January I mentioned the poem The Journey of the Magi by T. S. Eliot. That poem is an imaginary reflection by one of the Magi long after the journey; he is now an old man reflecting back on his life. The poet has the Magi ask himself what really happened on the journey, and Eliot writes “There was a birth, certainly. We had evidence and no doubt.” But then he goes on to reflect, “I had seen birth and death, but had thought they were different: this birth was hard and bitter agony for us, like death, our death.” At the end of the poem he says he went back changed, different. He was no longer so “at ease” because the birth he journeyed to see caused something to die in him. And now he knows that this dying was a good thing: “I should be glad of another death,” the Magi says. Birth and death, together. Connected. Related. Maybe even somehow the same; two sides of the same coin.

This season of Lent we think of the death of Jesus, and we “mortify” ourselves with practices that help us enter into his journey and so experience deeper life. We might say “no” to certain things during this season, but only so that we can say a fundamental “yes” to the invitation to follow Jesus as disciples. Whatever we do to mark this season is really meant to help us be born (again), about coming to the fullness of life. Many blessings on the Lenten journey!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 01 Mar 2018 02:18:01 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-3-4-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-3-4-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersWhat We Did During Lent 3/4/18Our Lent practice when I was a kid was partly to “behave ourselves better!”

Other “requirements, requests” were like:

Do a good deed each day, a kindness (especially if we didn’t want to do it.)

Pray for someone who needs it (to help us recognize that others had troubles too.)

Look around and see if there were helpful things we could do without being told to - sweep the floor, do dishes, be pleasant, don’t crab, help each other. I am the fifth of 10 kids, so there were many opportunities. Think what we could do better for the family or for ourselves.

The following is a prayer I got at an 8th grade retreat:

O God, make me smart and make me strong - smart enough to know your will and strong enough to do it. It started me but it makes sense.

Ann Sokalski

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What We Did During Lent

We invite you to share in the bulletin special Lent practices of your family now or in the past. We are parishioners of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We can be inspired by each other.

In his homily Sunday, Fr. Jeremy quoted St. Francis: While I was in sin, it seemed bitter to me to see lepers. And the Lord led me among them and I had mercy upon them, and that which seemed bitter to me was changed into sweetness of soul and body.”

“Since the essence of ‘Humility’ is ‘Truth’”, I can humbly boast that one of the many ways I observe Lent is to provide an opportunity to help those who, rightly or wrongly, feel justified in being genuinely and sincerely ‘bitter.’” I try to provide an opportunity for them to at least begin to become more able to turn that bitterness into the most compassionate “sweetness of soul and body”. St. Francis himself says it was by the direction and support of God that he was able to develop that “sweetness” and then maintain it under the duress of actually embracing rather than alienating each and every leper in his life.

Barry Parmeter

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What We Did During Lent

We invite you to share in the bulletin special Lent practices of your family now or in the past. We are parishioners of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We can be inspired by each other.

Chaldeans across the world have taken part of “Ba’utha,” which means “Supplication” for a request or need. It takes place Monday through Wednesday, three weeks before Lent begins. This year, we celebrated it January 22nd - 24th. It has its roots from the book of Jonah, when Jonah warned Nineveh to repent of their sins, otherwise God’s wrath would fall upon them. They obeyed: they abstained from food and from their sins, and as a result, God spared them. The reason Chaldeans today take part in this fast is because there was a plague in the Middle East and Mesopotamia around the year 550 that lasted for several years. The Chaldean bishops (of what is now present day northern Iraq) agreed to have the Chaldeans perform this fast. They abstained from meat, milk, and eggs, and did not eat anything at all until noon, for three days. Then, God answered their prayers and the epidemic passed! From then on, every year Chaldeans remember God’s mercy and take part in Ba’utha.

Joe Dallo

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What We Did During Lent

We invite you to share in the bulletin special Lent practices of your family now or in the past. We are parishioners of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We can be inspired by each other.

Limit is about 200 words.

Give or email to Fr. Jeremy your Lenten stories. frjeremyh@gmail.com

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Wed, 21 Feb 2018 07:48:42 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/what-we-did-during-lent-2-25-18
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/what-we-did-during-lent-2-25-18Sharon MyersSharon MyersFebruary 24-25, 2018At the Easter Vigil those who have been preparing for the Sacraments of Initiation throughout the world will be baptized, confirmed, and receive their first communion. Others already baptized in another Christian denomination will make a profession of faith in the Catholic Church. (Unfortunately we don’t have any people making that profession this year here at the Church of the Transfiguration, we do stand in solidarity with those doing this in other places! Maybe this is something we can work on by inviting someone we know to share our faith!) Those of us who are already baptized Catholics will join them by renewing our baptismal commitment at the Vigil and on Easter Sunday. This renewal of our baptismal commitment takes the place of the usual Creed.

You may know that Lent first began as a time of preparation for those celebrating these sacraments for the first time. In time, those already baptized and initiated used Lent as a time of renewal of their commitment. Today, when parishes celebrate the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) we revive some of those ancient rituals and there are ceremonies throughout Lent called the Scrutinies and Presentations where those who will be initiated are presented, supported, and prayed for by the whole community.

For those of us already baptized and initiated, this renewal of our profession is where Lent is headed; it is the ritual we are preparing for. Everything we do during Lent - our prayer, sacrifices, fasting, abstaining, almsgiving - is meant to prepare us to make that renewal with fresh enthusiasm. I invite you to keep that renewal in mind, and think about it from time to time during this season. We will be asked “do you renounce sin and evil?” and “do you believe in the Father, Son, and Spirit? “ We will be invited to make a resounding “YES” to those questions. But that renewal and recommitment is not to be made lightly, without thought and reflection. It should be the fruit of this Lenten journey. We take time during these 40 days, joining Jesus in the desert, to think about what it concretely means for me, now, in my life. At the Easter celebrations that “YES” will emerge from hearts renewed and refreshed by these days. We will walk more deeply into the waters of our baptism, into our covenant with God. It may be an event from long ago, but is more alive and active than ever. Our recommitment might encourage others to join us. “Come on in,” we tell them, “the water’s fine!”

Fr. Jeff

]]>Wed, 21 Feb 2018 07:45:48 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-24-25-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-24-25-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersFebruary 17-18, 2018In today's first reading from the book of Genesis, we hear of God's promise made to Noah after the great flood. There is one word in the brief reading that is repeated five times: covenant. God promises to establish a covenant made with Noah, his descendants, and "every living creature." God tells Noah that whenever He sees the rainbow, He will recall this covenant never to destroy or devastate the earth again. The bow in the cloud is a sign or symbol of the covenant. Covenant is not a word that we use everyday, but it is an important biblical concept. It generally refers to the relationship that God makes with us: He will be our God, and we will be his people. It is also the word we use in Catholic theology to describe the relationship between husband and wife in a sacramental marriage, where the man and wife make an unconditional vow with each other. They promise to love each other in any and every situation (better or worse, richer or poorer, in good times and in bad) for all of their lives. No ifs or conditions! This is why we say married couples remind us of the God who enters into a covenant with us and who loves us that way.

This Lent, many of the readings we will hear will remind us and encourage us to renew, deepen, and strengthen our covenant relationship with God. I invite you to look for mentions of this covenant as you read and listen to the Lenten scriptures. But perhaps more importantly, I also invite you to think about the relationship, the covenant you share with God. And each Lent, we don't just "give up something," because it is the season to do so, or maybe to lose a pound or two, but we do things that will renew this most special of relationships. And should we be blessed to see a rainbow, maybe it will remind us of this wonderful covenant bond we have with our God.

In his homily Sunday, Fr. Jeremy quoted St. Francis: While I was in sin, it seemed bitter to me to see lepers. And the Lord led me among them and I had mercy upon them, and that which seemed bitter to me was changed into sweetness of soul and body.”

“Since the essence of ‘Humility’ is ‘Truth’”, I can humbly boast that one of the many ways I observe Lent is to provide an opportunity to help those who, rightly or wrongly, feel justified in being genuinely and sincerely ‘bitter.’” I try to provide an opportunity for them to at least begin to become more able to turn that bitterness into the most compassionate “sweetness of soul and body”. St. Francis himself says it was by the direction and support of God that he was able to develop that “sweetness” and then maintain it under the duress of actually embracing rather than alienating each and every leper in his life.

Barry Parmeter

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

What We Did During Lent

We invite you to share in the bulletin special Lent practices of your family now or in the past. We are parishioners of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We can be inspired by each other.

Limit is about 200 words.

Give or email to Fr. Jeremy your Lenten stories.

frjeremyh@gmail.com

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Wed, 14 Feb 2018 06:33:37 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-17-18-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-17-18-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersWhat We Did During Lent 2/11/18What my family did during Lent in Indonesia and Australia.

· The Church will have a special project for that Lent. Example: there is a village that has no water source and people must walk miles to collect water. The money collected during Lent will go to that village to help them build a pipeline from the water source to the village. Every time we turn on the tap to wash our hands, to take a shower, to drink or flushing the toilet, we must donate money, example: 5 cents each time.

· Every Wednesday and Friday starting with Ash Wednesday through Good Friday: No sugar or salt in our food and beverage, no meat, no fish and no snacks.

· Give up something we like for the whole Lent season. The money saved from that action would be donated to a Church project. Example: the money saved from giving up chocolate during Lent would go the project.

· No dining out unless in case of emergency and the money saved would go to the project.

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What We Did During Lent

We invite you to share in the bulletin special Lent practices of your family now or in the past. We are parishioners of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We can be inspired by each other.

Limit is about 200 words.

Give or email to Fr. Jeremy your Lenten stories.

frjeremyh@gmail.com

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Tue, 06 Feb 2018 04:22:26 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/what-we-did-during-lent-2-11-18
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/what-we-did-during-lent-2-11-18Sharon MyersSharon MyersFebruary 10-11, 2018Thank you for the opportunity you have given me to serve as your pastor. I feel honored and privileged to be here at the Church of the Transfiguration and to share the journey of discipleship with you. I am grateful to Bishop Arturo Cepeda for installing me today and commissioning me to this service. I pledge to serve you to best of my ability. I am glad that some of you have had the opportunity to meet some members of my family who have traveled to share this day with me.

We begin the season of Lent this week. This year Ash Wednesday falls on Valentine’s Day, often symbolized by hearts. Though we may have to forgo eating chocolate hearts that day, it may be a happy coincidence that we can think about the “heart to heart” covenant relationship we have with our God. It’s better than chocolate!

I invite you to be especially mindful of the readings that we will hear on the Sundays of Lent. They speak about aspects of the covenant relationship with our God that we have been called to. On the first Sunday, we hear about the covenant made with Noah after the flood, the rainbow is the sign of God’s covenant with him and his descendants. On the second Sunday we will hear about the covenant God made with Abraham, our father in faith, when he was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac, the son who was the fruit of an earlier promise of God. God now promises that he would have many more descendants, as numerous as the stars of heaven or the sand on the shore of the sea. On the third Sunday, we hear about the 10 commandments, which were the “requirements” of the covenant that came through Moses, when God promised that he would be our God and we would be His people. On the fourth Sunday we will hear Jesus dialogue with Nicodemus; Jesus explains that he was sent because “God so loved the world,” and promises to be light in his life and invite him to eternal life. The first reading on the fifth Sunday of Lent from Jeremiah perhaps says it most clearly. God promises to make a new covenant with us, and to write it on our hearts. God made and renewed a covenant with his people throughout the ages, and God continues to invite us into that special relationship.

This Lent, look into and listen to your heart. Ponder the covenant God is making with you there. What do you find written on your own heart? Perhaps a divine Valentine message?

Fr. Jeff

]]>Tue, 06 Feb 2018 04:20:04 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-10-11-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-10-11-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersFebruary 3-4, 2018Last May, Fr. Bill Farris was elected by the friars to serve on our leadership team as our Province's Provincial Vicar. As Fr. Bill was beginning his service to the friars, I was ending my 18 years of Provincial administration/leadership - nine as Provincial Vicar and nine as Provincial Minister. The Province had already granted me a year's sabbatical (June 2017 to June 2018) to refresh and renew myself before going to another ministry. After going out of office, I did have some down time, and took a Franciscan renewal program in Assisi and spent some time studying Spanish in Guatemala. But with Fr Bill's election, the church of the Transfiguration was in need of a pastor. After prayer and discernment I - very happily! - offered to adjust my plans and shorten my sabbatical time so that I could come and be part of this faith community. Fr. Dennet agreed to serve as interim pastor to give me some time and space. I arrived here to begin the Advent season with you at the beginning of December.

I did have plans to take a Bible study program this coming spring offered by the school of theology where we send our students, Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. It involves taking a nine week online Scripture study course (three hours a week) and then spending three weeks studying Scripture in the Holy Land itself. Our Provincial leadership strongly encouraged me to keep those plans. Though it isn't an ideal way to begin a new ministry by being away for that amount of time, I will be participating in this program. Beginning the third week of February I will have to find three hours a week to take the online course as well as do some required reading. I know how I will spend my day off (Thursdays)! From April 29 to May 19, I will be in the Holy Land. Fr. Dennet has again graciously agreed to help cover masses while I am gone. I wanted to let you know of these plans now so you won't be too surprised when I am gone for that time. I hope this experience will bear fruit for me personally in my relationship with the Lord, and will also help me better understand the Scriptures and inform my preaching.

Fr. Jeff

What We Did During Lent

We invite you to share in the bulletin special Lent practices of your family now or in the past. We are parishioners of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We can be inspired by each other.

Limit is about 200 words.

Give or email to Fr. Jeremy your Lenten stories: frjeremyh@gmail.com

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Tue, 30 Jan 2018 01:59:17 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-3-4-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-3-4-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJanuary 27-28, 2018This week, I yield my space to our Chief Shepherd, Archbishop Allen Vigneron. This is taken from his pastoral letter, Unleash the Gospel. We will have an opportunity to study the letter during Lent. Stay tuned for details.

The very last words Jesus spoke to his disciples before he ascended into heaven were the commission to evangelize all people: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). This mandate defines the Church for all time. As Blessed Pope Paul VI wrote, “Evangelizing is in fact the grace and vocation proper to the Church, her deepest identity. She exists in order to evangelize.” Evangelizing is therefore a responsibility not only of bishops, priests, and religious, but of every individual Christian.

Evangelization is, very simply, proclaiming the good news of Jesus to those around us. This proclamation is to be both in word and in deed. If we share the good news of Christ’s love in words only, not demonstrably living what we preach, people will rightly suspect us of hypocrisy, and we may even give Christianity a bad name. On the other hand, if we share the good news in deeds only, people will not learn of the One who is the source of the joy and divine love we carry within us. Those around us are thirsting for the Gospel, the words of eternal life, even if they do not realize it. How can we fail to share generously what we have freely received?

Over the centuries, as the Church became accustomed to existing within almost entirely Christian societies, it became all too easy to lose sight of Christ’s mandate. Parishes and dioceses slipped almost imperceptibly into a mode of maintenance rather than mission. Many Catholics came to think of evangelization as a special calling, primarily for priests and religious in the foreign missions. But in the last half century, even as the western world has become increasingly secularized and countless people have abandoned the faith into which they were baptized, the Church has been ringing out a call for all Catholics to awaken to their baptismal identity as missionary disciples. All are being summoned to engage in a new evangelization—a renewed proclamation of the good news to the people of our time.

The term “new evangelization,” coined by Pope St. John Paul II, takes account of the fact that the Church in our time exists in a vastly changed situation. It is not that the Gospel has changed, but that we are called to a renewed effort that is “new in its ardor, methods and expression.” The new evangelization is directed not only to those in distant lands who have never heard the Gospel, but to those around us in our own post-Christian society. The new “mission territory” is our own neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, and even our own homes.

So what do you think of his assessment? Have we slipped into a “mode of maintenance rather than mission?” How specifically and concretely can the Church of the Transfiguration renew its effort to evangelize and share the Good News? What is your/our “mission territory?”

Fr. Jeff

]]>Mon, 22 Jan 2018 02:54:46 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-27-28-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-27-28-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJanuary 21, 2018I am stuck today by the sense of immediacy, urgency and wholehearted response in all three of today’s Scripture readings. (Did you feel it, too? I often think that the Scripture readings need to be “felt” and not only “heard” or “read.” Each of them usually has an “energy” or “dynamic” that helps us understand them.) In the first reading Jonah is commissioned by God to preach to the enormous city of Nineveh. Nineveh is so large it would take three days to travel through it, but after only one day’s travel and a message of only eight words (count them!), the whole population, great and small, believed and repented.

The early Christians believed that Christ’s return and the end of time was coming quickly. Time is getting short; a delay in responding is not possible. Paul insists in today’s letter to the Corinthians, “the time is running out;” and “the world in its present form is passing away;” and so our behavior ought to reflect that.

Mark’s Gospel tells us the story of the beginning of Jesus’ ministry and the call and response of the first disciples. At the invitation of Jesus, the brothers Simon and Andrew and James and John immediately abandon their boats, nets, and family business to join Jesus, to be about his “business” of proclaiming the Kingdom of God. The urgent proclamations and the immediate, wholehearted responses we read about today are pretty amazing.

These readings make me think about the things that feel urgent and immediately important to me. Perhaps some of my own plans and pet projects fall into that category. But is the “kingdom of God” that Jesus proclaimed one of those things? Is the call and invitation of Jesus to “come and see” something that I feel I need to reply to? I wonder what made the Ninevites and the first disciples willing to respond so quickly and so wholeheartedly. There must have been some reason why they were so receptive. Perhaps their lives were “ripe,” and they were finally ready to hear and receive the message; perhaps the struggles of life had worn them down and prepared them; perhaps they were tired after trying out the other calls and invitations that did not seem to fulfill their deepest hopes and desires. But now along comes Jesus. There must have been something very gripping and compelling in Jesus’ message about God’s reign and the encounter with Jesus that made them respond. They were ready and ripe for the call.

Am I feeling it? Am I “ripe” for the message of Jesus? Am I ready to respond with my whole heart, or at least a little more today that yesterday?

Fr. Jeff

]]>Wed, 17 Jan 2018 02:59:46 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-21-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-21-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJanuary 14, 2018As I hope you know, Archbishop Vigneron wrote a Pastoral Letter entitled Unleash the Gospel, released last June. The letter is the result of an Archdiocesan consultation process called Synod 16. The purpose of the Synod was to discern “what will make the Church in southeast Michigan a joyful band of missionary disciples.” The Synod, he wrote, “was the ignition spark that is to set the Archdiocese ablaze. Its goal was nothing less than a radical overhaul of the Church in Detroit, a complete reversal of our focus from an inward, maintenance-focused church, to an outward, mission focused church.” Wow! Archbishop Vigneron has asked all parishes to study this document and discern how it can be implemented in each parish. Our evangelization committee is working on this task, and you can look for more information very soon.

Today’s gospel offers us a paradigm for how we might do this, and much food for thought. John the Baptist, standing with two of his disciples, sees Jesus and acknowledges to them that Jesus is the “Lamb of God.” The disciples leave John and begin to follow Jesus. Jesus invites these disciples to “come and see,” and to stay with him that day, learning about the Kingdom from him. One of John’s disciples, Andrew, then goes and tells his brother Simon Peter about his experience with Jesus. Andrew brings Simon to Jesus and Simon the fisherman is “hooked.” (Pun intended!) In the encounter with Jesus he is transformed, symbolized by the new name he is given, Peter, or the “rock,” (Rocky?) because he will become the leader and the foundation of the Twelve. The encounter with Jesus must have been so significant that Andrew and Simon and the other unnamed disciple were willing to change the whole direction of their lives. No doubt in some fashion their hearts were set “ablaze.”

If we are to “Unleash the Gospel” and become a (more) joyful missionary band of disciples, focused outward, on our mission, what better role models can we have? Can we share our experience of Jesus with someone? Can we bring someone to encounter Jesus? Can we invite someone to “come and see?” Maybe even a family member who has stopped going to church? Perhaps Catholics who have stopped practicing their faith or others who are seeking a spiritual home? Can we provide a place where God can do that significant work of transformation? If we can set this parish (more) “ablaze” with faith filled warmth, hospitality, and community, perhaps (more) people will want to come and see what is going on here and join us in following the Lord! You notice that I added the word “more” several times. There is so much faith, goodness, and generosity here at the Church of the Transfiguration! We are a joyful band of missionary disciples. But we can always “kindle the flame” and welcome others and grow; we can invite others to share what we have experienced and God will do the rest!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Tue, 09 Jan 2018 07:07:43 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-14-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-14-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersJanuary 6-7, 2018At the end of January, (you can see the dates, times, and locations in the bulletin insert), I would like to host several “listening sessions” with members of the parish. I hope these will be opportunities to gather and educate your new pastor about Transfiguration Parish! I am eager to learn about you and hear your thoughts about our parish.

There will be several opportunities to gather, but all sessions will follow the same basic format. The sessions will be held at various times and in various locations, in order to accommodate the needs and desires of different parishioners. Some will be in the parish offices, some in the friary, and perhaps some in the homes of parishioners. A couple of the groups will be focused on our younger people. The size of some groups (e.g., in parishioner homes) will need to be limited due to space considerations. In order to plan, I am asking parishioners to call the parish to let us know which session you will attend. Each session will last about one and half hours.

This is the basic format we will follow:

A. Introductions of those present, so everyone will know each other.

B. Discussion of the following questions:

1. Name one thing you like about the parish

2. Name one thing that makes our parish unique – not better, just different than others

3. What drives the parish / what’s the “engine that leads the train?”

4. Name one challenge we are facing / will be facing as a parish/community/society. (These challenges do not just have to be in the parish, since community and societal issues do impact the parish.)

C. Q and A with the pastor.

Again, we ask you to call the parish office about which session you can attend. If we get lots of interest, we can schedule more! That would be a happy problem. But perhaps you can begin now to think about the questions. I don’t see us engaging in debate, but simply the sharing of ideas and experiences. I will try to process what I hear and share with you the ideas around which we seem to have some consensus. Thanks for being willing to participate. I think it will be enjoyable! Thanks for being willing to educate me!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Tue, 02 Jan 2018 04:48:38 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-6-7-2018
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-6-7-2018Sharon MyersSharon MyersDecember 30-31, 2017So 2017 is just about over. Once again, it has been quite an eventful year. In January Donald Trump assumed the Presidency. Whatever you think of him, he certainly is a provocative person. With his initiatives we have witnessed the debates about immigration and proposed travel bans, how to handle healthcare, and tax reform. We have experienced the struggles of some people in his administration as well as the controversial investigation of the possibility of Russia’s involvement in our elections and the question about any possible collusion with Russia by his campaign. We have heard of the controversy over Hillary Clinton’s lost emails. We have witnessed the dramatic fall of many entertainers, journalists, and politicians due to allegations of sexual harassment, and the pervasiveness of sexual harassment with the “me, too” movement. We have all been concerned with the frightening threats of nuclear attacks coming from North Korea. We have seen the wrath of Mother Nature at work with Hurricanes Harvey especially (in Houston) and Marie (especially in Puerto Rico.) We have heard of devastating earthquakes in Mexico and Iran/Iraq. There have been the hard to absorb mass shootings in Las Vegas and at a church in Texas. These were followed by the debates over gun control in our country. We heard of a congressman being shot while practicing for a congressional charity baseball game. We witnessed the violence at a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville. We have observed the debate over whether transgender people can use public bathrooms and whether a person can refuse to provide a service for people who are doing something that the service provider is opposed to. Is it discrimination or religious freedom? On a lighter note, we saw a rare total solar eclipse this year, too. There were certainly a lot more things, and more positive events, but these came quickly to mind.

No matter where you weigh in on these various issues and concerns, it is certainly complicated! As Catholic people of faith, how do we navigate these complex issues? How should we respond?

One of the things I have found helpful is Catholic Social Teaching. These teachings have sometimes been called the “hidden treasure” of the church. Over the years, the Church has taken the principles of the Gospels and applied them to the complex issues that arise wherever and whenever people try to live together. Seven key principles have emerged: 1) Life and Dignity of the Human Person, 2) Call to Family, Community, and Participation, 3) Rights and Responsibilities, 4) Option for the Poor and the Vulnerable, 5) the Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers, 6) Solidarity, and 7) Care for God’s Creation. These principles don’t tell us exactly what to do in every situation, but they do give us guidance about how to live morally and responsibly in this sometimes confusing world and live out the values of the Gospel. 2018 will probably bring more of the same and more complexity! It is not going to be any easier to live a Gospel centered life in the coming year! It might be a good New Year’s resolution to explore this wisdom of the Church. You can find more information on the US Bishop’s website, or just google “Catholic Social Teaching.” May we experience the peace promised by the angels to all people of goodwill! A blessed New Year to all!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 28 Dec 2017 11:49:50 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-30-31-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-30-31-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersDecember 24-25, 2017St. Francis of Assisi loved Christmas, and we Franciscans do too! As you probably know, St. Francis popularized the Christmas crèche tradition. A few years before he died, in a little Italian town called Greccio, St. Francis had the townspeople gather a manger and some live animals in a cave not far from the village. He did this because he wanted to give people a vivid picture of the simplicity and poverty into which Christ was born. While he was preaching that Christmas, the people said that the Christ child seemed to come alive, before their eyes and in their hearts.

So much of Jesus’ life was spent in simplicity and poverty. When Jesus was born in Bethlehem it was in the animals’ stable and he was first revealed to poor shepherds, who probably smelled like the sheep! At his birth, he and his family were homeless; there was no room for them in the inn. Later to flee the wrath of Herod, they became refugees in Egypt. As he traveled about, he had nowhere to lay his head. Jesus wasn’t the glamorous military Messiah that some were looking for; he didn’t lead a violent overthrow of the occupying Roman forces; he came as a suffering servant. He said he came to serve, not be served, and described himself as gentle and humble of heart. He wept over Jerusalem and endured great human suffering. He was a King, but his thrown was a cross and his crown was made of thorns. Even after the resurrection Mary Magdalen thought he was a gardener, and the disciples on the road to Emmaus did not recognize him until their eyes were opened during the breaking of the bread.

So often we look for God in extraordinary events, in miracles, in the supernatural. I think one of the things that Christmas tells us is that if we do this, we might be looking in the wrong places! The Incarnation proclaims that the Word has become flesh, or in a translation I like, God has “pitched his tent” among us. God has loved us so much, that He has become one of us; the divine has become human; in Jesus, the divine nature is joined with a human nature. And that tells us something very important about where God is to be encountered. If we want to look for God, perhaps we should look in the simple, the ordinary, in the poor.

Yes, God can be and sometimes is found in the miraculous and the extraordinary, but it seems He has a preference for the humble, the ordinary, even simple bread and wine. This Christmas, as we look for God, we might look in our ordinary human relationships, in our families, our neighbors, those gathered around the table, even in the poor and downtrodden. There is a provocative line in a song from Les Miserable that I like: “to love another person is to see the face of God.” Look into a loved one’s face, you might be led deeper into the mystery of God. We friars wish you a very blessed Christmas!

Fr. Jeff

]]>Tue, 19 Dec 2017 02:00:10 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-24-25-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-24-25-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersDecember 16-17, 2017The third Sunday of Advent is traditionally referred to as Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete is the Latin word for “rejoice,” and this designation is meant to echo and reinforce the admonition from the very first sentence of today’s second reading from 1 Thessalonians, “rejoice always.” The idea is that the Lord’s coming and ongoing presence among us should be a source of joy.

But let’s face it: it is sometimes hard to rejoice, let alone be joyful always! There are so many sources of pain, sorrow, frustration, and disappointment. Our bodies have aches and pains; our relationships are sometimes stained; our civil society is fractured and acrimonious; there is so much suffering, poverty, and violence. Rejoice? Always? Besides, what does it mean to be joyful, anyway? Is it realistic or even desirable that I be happy all the time?

I don’t think being joyful is the same thing as being happy. Joy is something deep and abiding. I think a person can be momentarily unhappy or sad, but deeply joyful at the same time. It comes from a profound sense in God’s presence in life and trust in God’s goodness. In many ways, that is the Good News of Christmas, of the Incarnation, that God is so good and so in love with us, that that goodness overflows as the Word becomes flesh. But that doesn’t mean we will not have times of struggle and challenge, but that we don’t have to deal with them alone. We have a light that has come to dispel darkness. Experiencing that work of God in our lives and in our world can be a source of almost inexpressible joy.

During a Mass last May at Casa Santa Maria in Rome, Pope Francis talked about the difference between happiness and joy:

“To be happy is good, yet joy is something more. It’s another

thing, something which does not depend on external motivations,

or on passing issues: it is more profound. It is a gift.

To be ‘happy at all moments, at all cost,’ can at the end turn

into superficiality and shallowness. This leaves us without

Christian wisdom, which makes us dumb, naïve, right?

All is joy … no. Joy is something else; it is a gift from the Lord.”

During this season of sharing gifts, perhaps we can radiate this most needed gift of a deep and abiding joy in God’s goodness. It will help us on our pilgrim way.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Thu, 14 Dec 2017 03:42:04 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-16-17-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-16-17-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersDecember 10, 2017This Advent season is a short one; we will lose the 4th week since the 4th Sunday falls on Christmas Eve. Not only does this make the scheduling of Masses a bit difficult; it also means we will not hear some of the beautiful Advent Scripture readings. We will have to do our Advent work in three weeks, not four! Advent is my favorite liturgical season. I love the hopeful imagery of the prophet Isaiah, and thinking about the colorful John the Baptist who prepared the way of the Lord, and pondering with Mary, the pregnant virgin, as she waits the birth of her child, wondering like all mothers, no doubt, what direction his life will take and what will be in store for him. We will pray with Mary this week on December 12 under the title of Our Lady of Guadalupe, remembering her appearance in the Americas (Mexico City) in 1531.

If you don’t already do it, I would encourage you to read and ponder the daily Scripture readings. They are so rich and beautiful, with striking images of what happens when one encounters the Lord. This Monday, for example, Isaiah proclaims that with the coming of the Lord will make the desert bloom with flowers, the weak will regain their strength, the blind will see, the deaf will hear, and the lame will leap. On Wednesday Isaiah proclaims that “they that hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar as with eagles’ wing.” Are you feeling the Advent spirit of joy and hope? If you don’t have a missalette, you can find the readings online at the US Bishops’ website usccb.org. This is also a good time of year to listen to Handel’s Messiah. If you can’t attend a performance, you can find it online as well. Can you hear the Hallelujah Chorus right now in your head? King of kings, and Lord of lords! Treat yourself to this powerful and prayerful piece of music. It’s a good earworm to have during this Advent season.

If you don’t have an Advent wreath in your home, it is not too late. Lighting another candle each week can be a nice visual reminder of the growing light that is coming among us, for he is coming to be a light that dispels our darkness. At our evening mass on Christmas eve we will again hear Isaiah remind us that “the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom, a light has shone.” Perhaps we can remember that as we decorate our houses with colored lights and trim our trees. I think another good image for Advent might be the dawn. As the sun rises, the light gradually gets brighter until the full light of day is present. Have you ever said that something has “dawned” upon you? What (who?) is dawning upon you this Advent? I pray that the Lord will enlighten our lives and dawn upon us as we celebrate this season.

Fr. Jeff

]]>Tue, 05 Dec 2017 01:03:56 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-10-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-10-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersDecember 2-3, 2017New liturgical season, new worship aids (“Celebrating the Eucharist”), new pastor! This is just some of the newness we might see this weekend of December here at Transfiguration parish. The Advent season has arrived, the beginning of the new Church year. With something new, with a new beginning there is always some change involved. Changes are not always welcomed by us, and not always appreciated. Paula and John have accepted the burden of collecting the outdated worship aids and replacing them with the current issues that will last for the next three months. Quite a chore, but change is often a chore for all of us because we feel comfortable with what is habitual and what is familiar. Change sweeps us away from our comfort zones. There will be changes in our sanctuary and gathering space as they are adapted to this new season of anticipation and preparation for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. The various commissions of the parish will be gearing their discussions and activities to this new season and beyond as they deal with a new calendar year also. Families are always facing changes in their daily routines depending on the demands of their workplaces and on the needs of the children. The formalities and festivities of the Christmas holidays add even more anxiety and tension as parents and children seek to cope with the additional commitments and activities.

Change is obviously the order of our lives, if for no other reason than growth is the order of our lives. To live is to grow, and to grow entails changes. Growth is multi-faceted and therefore so is change. We grow with change and we change with growth. Both change and growth bring to us loss and gain. We grieve loss, and once we see that growth begets gain, we come to rejoice in the gain. We find ourselves at times not seeing or not rejoicing in the gain because we find it so difficult to grieve the loss. We miss and grieve over the loss of summer when autumn sets in; we see some gain when springtime offsets the cold, dark, and somber days of winter. Change sometimes enthralls us and sometimes annoys, frustrates, and destabilizes us. But that is life!

It seems that in order to be at peace in our everyday life we need to accept and embrace the surprises and ritual patterns that are part of our nature and the reality of the changing world in which we live. Grieve, as we must; diminishes and even dispels grief. Listen to St. Paul: “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1Thessalonians 5:16-19)

Together we welcome the change to a new season, Advent 2017. Together we welcome Fr. Jeff Scheeler as our permanent pastor. And together we look forward with rejoicing to the celebration of Jesus’ birthday at Christmas.

Lord God, thank you for making me who I am. This is difficult for me to say because so often I have wanted to be someone else. I didn’t like the way I was built, the bodily features you gave me, the mental and emotional strengths you provided for me. I wanted to look like the popular person down the street, the attractive person everyone looked up to. I wanted to have the financial resources to dress fashionably and to have the time and means to travel to distant destinations at will. And yes, I wanted the popularity that gave me the assurance of my goodness and worth. But here I am, as I am, the person you made me to be and become. Despite my many feelings of envy and disappointment with what you made me to be, I am grateful for who I am. Thank you, Lord. You know better than I that for which I am destined in your overall plan for your world. I want to be somebody great, influential, recognized and well-regarded. You also want that for me, but not in the way that I would have devised or decided. Sometimes, I feel unneeded, unwanted, unappealing, and unappreciated. But, I believe, Lord, that these feelings are just my delusions and selfish desires emanating from my false self, the self I imagine I should be, a self that is not of your making but one of my making. You made me, Lord, as you desire, not for my personal glory, but for the good of all your people. I have gifts, not the gifts I desire, but the gifts you want for me so that I can help complete your world and in some way reveal your goodness. I have personality traits that will attract some and aggravate others, just like all the other creatures you have made. Thank you, Lord for making me as I am and help me to become the best I can be with what you have given me. I may never be completely satisfied with what I have been given or with what I have accomplished. But I know that all I have received and all that I have accomplished is gift from you to me. Of myself I can do nothing, but with you all things are possible, and as I continue to live and learn and grow in your wisdom, you help me become the best I need to be. That’s all you ask of me, Lord, and that is all I need to expect of myself. Here I am for you, Lord, as you are here for me. Help me to see and experience your goodness in my life and give me the willingness to share that goodness with all those you send into my life. Thank you, Lord, for making me who I am!

Fr. Dennet

]]>Mon, 20 Nov 2017 03:09:47 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-25-26-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-25-26-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersNovember 18-19, 2017In a few weeks we will be hearing Christmas carols in retail stores as we walk down the aisles of colorful packaged holiday merchandise and decorations. On our TVs we will notice the traditional Christmas movies being promoted and programmed once again. One of my favorite films for the holidays is the classic production “It’s A Wonderful Life,” with Jimmy Stewart starring as the leading character George Bailey. At the end of this movie the angel Clarence, who was sent to help George, finally earned his wings because he faithfully accomplished the mission God gave him. The mission was to help George and the people of Bedford Falls through a period of crisis they were facing at the hands of a greedy banker and his cronies. Well, we all know the story well!

What is it about angels that can teach us a lot about ourselves and our relationship with God? Angels are usually portrayed as human beings with wings. That says something to me about “freedom.” Wings are a symbol of human freedom, which we might intuit from our yearning to soar above and beyond where we are and what we can do. With wings of freedom we can fly “like an eagle” and experience the world in all its wonder. Angels are free, we feel, because they have, according to traditional thinking and artistic depictions, wings to soar beyond human concerns. They are not rooted to the earth or to its many limitations. But according to human psychology and Christian spirituality they are free because they have surrendered their EGOS to the will of God. Rooted in our self-centered behaviors, we are tied down to our own desires, agendas, preferences, and perceptions. We have thus disabled our “wings” (freedom) that alone can transform us from our crippling human self-absorption to the angelic existence of moving without limitations and soaring peacefully in the presence of God. This process of achieving angelic status is long and tedious as we note in the holiday movie. Clarence was still a “second-class” angel who had not as yet completed the process of earning his wings, that is, discovering his true freedom.

Often angels are pictured with child-like features (cherubs) along with their wings. As little children our egos have not as yet become giant “me-monsters” and are still free to be attentive to and caring about others. As we age, our egos grow and as we grow in self-centeredness we find it harder and harder to fly or even reach beyond ourselves. The ego-roots tie us into the soil of self-reliance and self-satisfaction. Jesus knew that this was the situation of wounded humanity, so he challenged us to lose ourselves (egos) in order to find ourselves, to die to ourselves in order to come to life, to surrender ourselves in order to let ourselves be saved. (Cf.John 12:24-25, Luke 17:33, Matthew 16:25, Matthew 10:39) Another way of saying this is that we need to dig up our false roots (the ones WE plant!) so that we can enable our wings to set us free for the mission God has planted in our hearts. Our real roots are in God! Rooted in God we are nourished and nurtured to serve our brothers and sisters, to enable them to discover and make life-giving decisions. The movie angel Clarence surrendered his self-concerns (false roots) and was able to fly to the help of George Bailey and help him discover that God’s way is a “wonderful life.” May we, like the angel Clarence get our wings for Christmas! May we chop away at our false roots of self-absorption and free ourselves to spread wide our angelic wings to live and work for the welfare of the whole human family. Happy Thanksgiving to you all, and a “wonderful” Christmas season!

Fr. Dennet

]]>Wed, 15 Nov 2017 04:42:18 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-18-19-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-18-19-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersNovember 11-12, 2017What are we looking for in our lives? What really matters to us? What is that for which our hearts and souls hunger and thirst so deeply? From a mere academic or catechetical viewpoint we might say “God is my deepest longing. To be at one with God is my heart’s desire.” Yes, we were made by God and for God and our hearts are restless until they rest in Him. But, do we feel this and integrate this belief into our lives every day? Is this our every day felt and perceived desire and conscious goal?

When we ask ourselves “where is my heart?” or “where is my ‘treasure’”, we might have to admit that God is not at all times the center of my life. God is not always in our conscious awareness throughout most of the day or even in church! We are not bad people or hypocrites if we truthfully have to admit this. We are merely admitting and acknowledging our weakness as human beings, our struggle to remember that God is God and I am not! This sounds so simple, and it is. But “simple” does not mean “easy;” nor does it mean “quick” or “without pain and worry.” It takes a long time to grow up, that is, grow out of ourselves; it is a tedious and troubling trail from “me” to “we”, from self to other! This trail is our greatest trial on earth.

Speaking of pain and worry, I believe that pain decreases when we worry less. God doesn’t promise to eliminate our pain, but God does tell us time and time again, “Don’t worry, be not afraid; do not fear!” A lot of our pain—tension, anxiety, ennui, loneliness, boredom, depression, disappointment, frustration— is the result of worry and/or fear. God promises us that even though our human condition will bring us suffering, setbacks, illnesses and death, we can go through life without worry and fear. Why? It’s because God is our constant companion in good times and in bad times. Even when we ask the question out of a sense of weariness and wonder, “what is this world coming to?” there is always the comforting response (whether we hear it or not!) “I am with you all days until the end of the world.” (Matthew 28:20) Jesus assures us that we are not alone. We have experienced any number of times how having a companion eases or eliminates our fear. For example, when we are walking in the dark or driving in unknown territory and finding ourselves lost, we tend to feel threatened and frightened. But if someone is walking or driving with us, we feel more secure and less anxious. The message of God being close to us at all times is evident not only in the Scriptures, but in our liturgical prayer.” For example, in the Eucharistic prayer for Various Occasions, we pray “You are truly blessed, O God of holiness, for you accompany us with love as we journey through life.”

Yes, it is difficult for this truth of God’s accompanying presence and providence to be continually in the forefront of our minds and hearts. Deep within us our souls yearn for God and for all that God offers us—comfort, hope assurance, and peace. But since we so readily operate on the level of routine, habit, self-reliance, and self-pity, we get lost in ourselves and do not see beyond ourselves. Getting out of this “rut” is one of the purposes of prayer. “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) is a message of the Scriptures. “Pray always” is the mantra and mindset of the contemplative and the mystic. It is through this ongoing orientation to God, this focus on God day in and day out that we come to realize that the treasure we seek by our very nature is the God who made us and never abandons us. With our growth in contemplation and our willingness to enter into the mystery of God, we come to know and experience that this treasure is never far away.

Fr. Dennet

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-11-12-2017-252014Sharon MyersSharon MyersNovember 4-5, 2017An important message in today’s Gospel reading is that we need to remember WHO we are and WHOSE we are. (Matthew 23:1-12) This is a message we too quickly forget; we are children of God and we belong to God. How simple this message is! Yet, how quickly we forget!

One reason we forget is that we tend to get distracted and caught up in the details which we often call “minutiae.” These “little things” distract us from the larger message. We do not see “the forest because of the trees,” as the old proverb goes. For example, how many times haven’t we heard people argue that we should not call priests “father.” According to some people, if you take Jesus’ words literally, the Scriptures forbid calling anyone on earth “father” or “teacher.” Only God deserves these titles, they contend. The deeper message, however, is that we remember that God is our first and foremost Father, and we, His children, are sisters and brothers to one another. Sometimes we focus on the metaphor, the language, instead of the message; we see the outside but do not look at the inside. And so it is in every day conduct and conversations with one another. We look at the package and do not see the product. We describe the personality of someone but fail to discern the person! In our efforts (mostly unconscious) to divinize ourselves, we feel it necessary to demonize others.

Maybe we can uncover another common misperception we human beings struggle with. When we are asked to obey God or to follow the commands of Jesus, the ultimate reason behind this is to help us do our work effectively, efficiently, and successfully. Thus, our obedience (listening) is for our own good. God doesn’t need our obedience; WE DO! Our conforming to the way God made us to be assures our well-being, our happiness. We forget this. We often perceive that when we are told what to do or how to live, it is for someone else’s benefit and because of someone else’s whim. In reality, it is often for our own good, our safety, our growth, our progress in life. Again, God doesn’t need our obedience; WE have the need, and it is for our own good! “Do your homework; go to bed early; follow the speed limit; don’t do drugs; keep away from the salty and sugary snacks; get your eyes checked; wear your seat-belt; go to church;…….these all are directions, admonitions for our happiness, security, growing into a mature human being. And this happiness begins now, not just in heaven. Learning how to be happy and to enjoy happiness begins by LISTENING to the voice of God rather than the voice of my ego that tells me to do whatever “feels” good to me, that is, whatever I want. Our egos live only for the here and now. The voices of our egos tend to drive out the voice of God, and God wants what is really good for us, a good that lasts. God wants a good for us that will bring us ultimate fulfillment and peace. “If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.” (Psalm 95)

Fr. Dennet

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-4-5-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersOctober 28-29, 2017Next Sunday and during that week I will be at St. Mary’s Church in Bloomington, IL for their parish mission. I was asked to present a series of talks for the parishioners on the occasion of their 150th anniversary as a parish, 1867-2017. As I recall, St. Mary’s has a large parish cemetery where many of their deceased members are buried. A cemetery is a fitting tribute to those men and women and children who have gone before us having lived their lives as witnesses to Christ and to His Gospel message.

During this upcoming week we commemorate All Souls Day, a memorial of special prayer for the Faithful Departed. With prayer for those who have gone before us, there is usually an accompaniment of story-telling. When families or groups of families come together to celebrate they are often moved to remember and converse about the past in order to get in touch with their common history and memories. They recall both sad and humorous events together, thus reminding them of their common heritage. Of course, the events remembered deal mainly with PERSONS, not just with happenings. We still like to recall and tell stories of our parents, grandparents, and other family members whose lives brought wisdom, wit, and warmth into our lives. As we pray “May they rest in peace,” we rejoice in the many gifts they have handed on to us, gifts that today we are handing on to others who will be living long after us.

What are the gifts of our deceased parishioners that we have received? To put it briefly, the answer is their life-stories. Each of these stories is unique and special, replete with joys and sufferings; each story is a living testimony to the presence and power of God alive in their work and in their witness. The life-stories of our departed family members and friends are a part of God’s saving work and enduring word among His people. God communicates with us through one another. Our fore-bearers listened to God and acted on the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Their good deeds and their spoken wisdom revealed the ongoing care of God for us, His people. The life-stories of women and men of the past reflect God’s ongoing presence and saving power as He continues to be in touch with us on our life journey. These stories give us hope; they widen our vision, deepen our faith, and call forth from us a renewed commitment to live and work for the enlivening and enrichment of the world in which we now live. When Jesus proclaimed that the “reign of God is at hand,” He was affirming our belief that the God who made us will always walk with us to lead and guide us to our eternal destiny. We see the reign of God in the life of Jesus. We continue to see this presence in the goodness, beauty, and truth witnessed in the HISTORY (“his-story” and “her-story”) of our Faithful Departed.

Fr. Dennet

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-28-29-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersOctober 21-22, 2017One of the most fascinating topics religious people like to converse about is PRAYER. We know that prayer is fundamental to a spiritual life, and most of us pray, perhaps more than we think we do. Why is that? Why are we not always aware that we are praying? One reason may be that we think of prayer in a very narrow way and that we are not familiar with the many facets and forms of being in touch with God in our everyday experience and behavior. I remember being taught that “prayer is lifting up our minds and hearts to God.” This is a very broad description of prayer, but in our teaching methods throughout the years we have narrowed this description by validating and emphasizing only certain forms and formats of prayer. In recent years, with the growing emphasis on contemplative prayer, we find a wide variety of prayer forms and methods. And many of these recently emphasized prayer forms have a number of variations and adaptations. This trend is not a denial of more customary or traditional prayer styles or forms, but rather it raises our consciousness to the reality that we all meet and converse and grow in relationship with our heavenly Father in our own unique way, the way God made us to be. And the God of goodness, beauty, and truth made each one of us unique and different so that we in turn can reflect and share with one another the goodness, beauty, and truth of His creation.

One form or style of prayer that especially appeals to my particular personality and make-up is that of “silent awareness.” We need to remember that liturgical (the common prayer of the church) and private prayers are distinct prayer forms. We need common prayer and we need private prayer. One form complements the other, and sometimes these two forms coincide with one another. My private “silent awareness” (for lack of a more nuanced word at this time) is a form of contemplation and meditation. This prayer style as with other prayer forms becomes prayer when it proceeds from the mind and heart. A book or some other object might be helpful as a focus point, but real prayer proceeds from the heart when the heart is oriented toward God.

I like to gaze at a tree or at a squirrel or a sunset or a cloud and just enjoy what I am looking at. The quiet around me is itself a blessing from God, and the beauty of God’s creation moves me to reflect on its beauty, its uniqueness, its special place in the world God made. Where is the prayer? The prayer is in my perception, in the affirmation and enjoyment of the silence, God’s creation, and in my grateful heart. The prayer is in my awareness and acknowledgment that these creatures are OF GOD, that they are good and beautiful, and that in gratitude I enjoy being in their presence. Being in their presence puts me in the presence of the God who made all things good. I may or may not utter a word, but my silent heart speaks volumes. It seems that my prayer is just being at rest in the presence of God’s awesome creation. No, this is not liturgical prayer, nor is it a formulated devotional prayer from a script. But sometimes as I say “Amen” to God in these precious moments of quiet engagement, I think I can hear God’s “Amen” echo my own.

Fr. Dennet

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-21-22-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersOctober 14-15, 2017For the purpose of titling or categorizing this reflection, I might name it “Mary, the Catechist.” In Luke’s Gospel we read that “Jesus grew in wisdom and in age and favor before God and people.” (Luke 2:52) We believe that Jesus embraced fully the human condition, becoming like us in all things except sin. (Cf. Hebrews 4:15) This being the reality, we come to believe that Jesus was guided and taught by Mary and the other mentors He came to know and with whom He lived. Jesus came to learn the teachings of the Torah and the customs and practices of traditional Jewish religion. He joined Mary and Joseph in observing solemn feasts that were noted in the Hebrew Scriptures. The extended family of Jesus along with faithful members of the local synagogue assisted Mary and Joseph in the ongoing education and formation of Jesus. Very likely, Jesus spent a large amount of time listening to and learning from Mary and Joseph so that He at the age of twelve years could comfortably engage in conversation with the teachers in the Jerusalem temple. We read about this event in Luke 2:46-47.

The Church has continued to proclaim that the primary religion teachers of their children are the parents. Along with the parents, others in the Church community assist parents in this responsibility for children. We all have an important role in the religious formation of our younger brothers and sisters. Whether we do this as appointed catechists in the parish or as neighbors or as fellow parishioners, the privilege and responsibility to “proclaim the Gospel message” is given to all of us. If we, as brothers and sisters to one another in Christ Jesus, are to be a part of the ongoing process of teaching the Gospel message, we also need to be a part of the ongoing process of learning the Gospel message. We cannot teach unless we learn, just as we cannot preach effectively, unless we practice effectively. What a sacred privilege and responsibility we have been given —to help bring our brothers and sisters to life in Christ Jesus!

In order to fulfill our mission as evangelists (teachers of the “Good News”) we need to be able to “read the signs of the times” as Pope Francis encourages us to do. Another way of saying this is “to be eager and ready to look outside and beyond ourselves.” If all we look at and see is ourselves, we find no meaning or purpose in our lives. Meaning and purpose, and consequently “hope” bring us to life, because life means growth and there can be no growth if we stay looking at ourselves and working only for our own self-interests. Life gets pretty boring with only this self-orientation. And such an orientation can only bring us LONELINESS. If we do not grow up, that is, grow out of ourselves, we die before we ever come to life. In imitation of Jesus who grew in wisdom and age by looking out and listening to the persons around Him, may we find our meaning and purpose, our hope and happiness in lives of learning and serving, teaching and witnessing God’s Word. This attitude of Mary, the catechist, was “let it be done to me as you say.” May this also be our response to the call God gives us.

Fr. Dennet

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-14-15-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersOctober 7-8, 2017This past Wednesday (Oct. 4) we celebrated the feast of St. Francis of Assisi who founded the Franciscan Order in the first decade of the 13th century. The first rule of this Order, a simple and short letter to the Pope, is said to have been acknowledged by the Church in the year 1209. As this brotherhood of mendicant friars continued to grow during the following decades and centuries there was ongoing development and expansion in its institutional setting. A variety of preferred lifestyles and different perceptions of the original customs and practices brought about changes among the brothers so that today the Franciscan brotherhood can be seen in at least four somewhat distinct groupings. Many people in the Detroit area are very familiar with the OFM Capuchins who minister in our diocese in a number of social outreach ministries. Besides this branch of Franciscans there are the Conventuals, the Third Order Regulars, and the OFM “root” brotherhood, the Order of Friars Minor. We friars here at Transfiguration parish belong to this latter and original grouping. Believe it or not, all four of these Franciscan groups get along very well together because we share a common history, legacy, and have a common mission that dates back to the first brotherhood of 1209. That mission is the life and ministry of St. Francis of Assisi (+1226), namely to live and witness the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

St. Francis in his love of Jesus and his concern for all people and all creation was not content to bring together only brothers, but also all who longed to bring renewal to the Church through living a Gospel life. When a young woman named Clare came to Francis seeking to live a life of strict poverty and prayer in a religious community, Francis helped her organize and develop the Order of Poor Clares as we now call this second Order of Franciscans. Still, there were others, men and women, married and single, who desired to live and witness the simple life of Jesus and his disciples in their own time. And thus, the Third Order came about under the inspiration and with the cooperation of Francis. Today their official name is the Order of Franciscan Seculars (OFS). There are a number of these fraternities in our area and many such fraternities throughout the world today.

Francis’ commitment to living and preaching the Gospel in the 13th century continued to attract women and men down through the centuries until today. The number of religious sisters’ communities that embrace the Franciscan name and charism are numerous. They follow the fundamental way of life Francis saw in the sacred Scriptures, especially the Gospels. Francis’ message was simple, concise, and complete. As the Rule of 1223 states, “the rule and life of the Friars Minor is this, namely, to observe the Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ by living in obedience, without property and in chastity.” (Chapter 1, Rule of 1223) and we Franciscans today are continually reminded of our Founder’s exhortation to live with a spirit of ongoing renewal when he told his brothers, “Brothers, let us begin again, for up until now we have done nothing!” To encourage and support us in our efforts, near the end of his life, Francis reminded us when he said, “My brothers, I have done what was mine to do; may Christ teach you what is yours to do.”

Peace and all good to you! (“Pax et bonum.”)

Fr. Dennet

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-7-8-2017-675083Sharon MyersSharon MyersSeptember 30 - October 1The first Sunday of October every year is named by the Catholic Church as Respect Life Sunday. When we talk about respecting life, we are referring to every creature of God, in other words, all creation. Everything that exists is born of God and of His goodness, and all that God has made is good (Genesis 1:31). Respecting life is what we mean by the idea of reverence, and reverence is giving the appropriate response to the value, the goodness of God’s creation. The greeting used by those who practice Yoga is “Namaste.” This inspiring greeting means “I reverence the good that is within you.” Since God is “the” GOOD, and the source and creator of all that is good we believe that everything is a gift from God and all creation is worthy of our reverence.

The original sin of humanity was that of choosing to “ordain” themselves as gods, opting out of the God-creature relationship. When humanity no longer sees God as creator and source of all good, the result is that reverence is soon forgotten, dismissed, or denied. Notice the Cain and Abel tragic story early on in the book of Genesis, 4:8. When we no longer value all creation (persons and things) as being good, we soon pick and choose what we feel is good or rationalize to be good. Value becomes relative, and reverence is diminished. In our weakness of mind and in our self-centeredness of heart we no longer value good objectively but look for it and see it subjectively. We see good, value, truth according to our own selfish interests and choices. Such is the weakened human condition.

Thanks be to God, we are graced by the Word of truth, Jesus, the Word-Made-Flesh. Through Him we have the power to know and grow through our wounded humanity. The Ten Commandments speak to us of what is valuable and therefore to be reverenced. Jesus showed us by his life, death, and resurrection the beauty of this goodness and truth. Through the saving life and work of Jesus we are now free to reverence good, to know what is good, and to choose that good. Another way of saying this is that we have the intelligence and freedom to respect life through the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Human beings are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). The image of God is goodness; we are graced to know and choose goodness. Life is good. Our response to this value, this goodness, is to reverence all life and in a special way, human life, which God embraced in the Incarnation of Jesus. Every person from the moment of conception to natural death is to be recognized, protected, respected and cared for as a gift from God.

Whether we are young or old, healthy or ill, stranger or acquaintance, male or female, we are brothers and sisters to one another in the one human family. For ourselves and for one another we are called by God to “choose life.” To choose life is to choose the good; to choose the good is to choose God!

Fr. Dennet

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-30-october-1Sharon MyersSharon MyersSeptember 23-24, 2017On Wednesday of this week (Sept. 27) the Church remembers the life and ministry of St. Vincent de Paul (1581-1660). He was born in France into a peasant farmer family and eventually was ordained a priest after years of study. Vincent was instrumental in founding a congregation of women (Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul) and a congregation of men known as the Congregation of the Missions (The Vincentians). These few sentences do not adequately summarize his life and work. For those who seek to know more about this energetic saint, you may want to search the internet using his name as the question topic. If you do this search you will discover that Vincent was what we describe as an “unselfish seeker.”

Vincent at any point in his life could have sat down and said “I’ve had enough; I’ve accomplished all that I need to do.” “Sitters” tend to think and act with this mindset. “Seekers”, on the other hand, say “There’s still more I can BE and DO for myself and others.” This seems to be the thought and mode of action for Vincent. “Sitting down” and waiting and watching for things to happen can be a temptation for all of us. Standing up and seeking life-giving ways to grow that can benefit the common good of all is a more viable and fulfilling option. That was Vincent’s resolve and response. Even for those of us who may be worn out and weary from illness, setbacks, disappointments, and advanced age there is much for us to seek out and savor, many ways for us to give service to others and find satisfaction and ongoing growth for ourselves. For example, developing a more congenial demeanor amidst our sufferings and daily concerns is a continuing challenge we could be seeking to embrace every day of our lives. Or we could seek to be more attentive to those with whom we are speaking. Or we could seek to find more benefits and joys, and serenity in the many tedious and anxious moments with which we are often confronted. These active and positive decisions keep us moving toward a more mature faith-life in the Lord.

I am impressed and inspired by the members of our parish community who continue to thrive through their unselfish ministry and service long after their official retirement from the workplace. I see these women and men, along with their counterparts who are still in the work force engaged in various liturgical and outreach ministries here at Transfiguration Church. I see this in our parish and in parishes where I have previously been assigned. And I was inspired by those dedicated people stepping up to accompany and support their less fortunate brothers and sisters by serving them under the auspices of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. This international society, by the way, was formed by a group of university students in Paris in the year 1833. The energizing force behind this movement was a young student named Frederick Ozanam, now known as Bl. Frederick Ozanam. That energizing force today is composed by parishioners in over 130 countries who continue to have concern and regard for those in their communities who are dealing with misfortunes.

“Seekers” tend to be happy people. Why? For one reason, they are grateful people and want to share their gifts of time and talent with others. Secondly, God made all of us to relate with one another through mutual giving and receiving of the gifts He bestowed on us. Such generous and grace-filled relationships draw us to the completeness we need and the fulfillment we long for. Such relationships draw us out of ourselves and into the realm of our Creator, the world of love.

Fr. Dennet

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-23-24-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersSeptember 16-17, 2017As a world, as a nation, as a community of God’s people, we are in need of SPIRITUALITY. And as we celebrate Catechetical Sunday this weekend, it will be helpful to reflect on this foundational need in our life. “Spirituality” is one of those ideas we frequently mention but for which we do not always have a critical understanding. As a matter of fact, everyone has a spirituality of some sort. Spirituality is our value system, our way of perceiving, our mode of operating, and our heart-felt approach to life. We are people of both flesh and spirit; therefore spirituality is part of our God-given makeup. Our spirituality is our way of relating to life, to God the giver of life, to the human family of which we are a part, and to the whole created world in which we live.

As we seek to evangelize ourselves (yes, we are in ongoing need of growing in commitment to Jesus!), and as we seek to evangelize others (proclaim and witness Jesus to one another) we need to discover and discern and commit to living the mind and heart of Jesus as a prerequisite for delivering His message to others. Such is the proclamation of the Gospel; such is Gospel spirituality. Evangelization is more than proclaiming and explaining doctrines. It is also, and primarily, BEING compassionate and caring messengers of God’s presence and love. Systematic theology and spirituality may at first glance seem to be separate and distinct courses of study. Upon closer consideration we will find these to be two complementary facets of what we call FAITH, our intimate and personal relationship with God and with our human family. Yes, faith IS relationship, just as hope and love are relationships. Gospel spirituality is our personal and corporate relationship with our heavenly Father in and through and with Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

The emphasis on this Catechetical Sunday has traditionally been a reference to instructing our younger sisters and brothers in the formalities of living a Catholic-Christian life; we teach them prayers, rituals, rules customs and practices of the Church. This is good and necessary for them to learn. Thanks to those who volunteer to do this ministry of the Church in our parish. May God bless you for your generous service. As we instruct our students we do not want to put a barrier between mind and heart, or between theology and spirituality. Yes, we have responsibilities to God and to one another and to our society and to the whole realm of creation. But why? We cannot forget to let our students know the “why” for what they are asked to believe or practice. Understanding and appreciating the “why” will help our students find motivation, inspiration, meaning, and purpose in their lives so that they can pursue fulfilling their responsibilities with free and generous hearts. Some important reasons why we honor God and reverence all God’s creation are: all that we are and all that we have are gifts from God; we need God and we need one another because God alone can save us. God is good, and all that God does is good. We are good, and God loves us for who we are, for who God made us to be. God wants the best for us, and God wants us to grow into our best selves, not for God’s sake, but for our fulfillment and happiness. Because God is our Father, God protects us, provides for us, understands us, forgives us, and walks side by side with us on our life journey on earth. Yes, life is difficult at times; we suffer, we don’t always get what we want, and we sometimes do not succeed. Yet, our heavenly Father has shown us His care and concern when He became like us in the Person of Jesus who embraced all the sufferings of human life even to death on a cross. As God raised up Jesus, so will He raise us up time and time again when we hurt, when we lose, when we make mistakes, when we are lost and have nowhere to turn. There is no “nowhere” with God, because God is everywhere, and wherever we are, there is God. This is the assurance we all need as we walk with Jesus the way of the cross.

Fr. Dennet

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-16-17-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersSeptember 9-10, 2017The official end of summer season is just a week or two away. Seasons of the year come and go and bring weather changes as well as time and agenda changes. In the autumn season, school classes replace playtime at the pool, raking leaves replaces picking weeds in the garden, and we begin to replace in our closet the sleeveless shirts of summer with the sweaters and sweat shirts we need for the cool days and nights to come. Such is the rotation of the seasons; such are the invariable changes that are a part of human life.

As my 80th birthday approaches in a few days, I reflect more and more on the seasonal changes of human life. There was the springtime and there was the summertime. Spiritual writers often refer to these seasons as the first part of our life. Then come the autumn and winter seasons, which we can call the second part of our journey on earth. Each season is special, significant, and sacramental. That is, each season is a sacred time in which God meets us where we are and as we are on our earthly pilgrimage. Each season is a gift, a blessing from God, not only for us as individuals, but also for the people we meet and live with at each moment. Our society tends to recognize and rejoice in the blessings of youth, the vitality, the productivity, the glamour, the adventures and the accomplishments that youth is known for. For these seasons, we thank and praise God! Yet, our later two seasons are also full of blessings, graces that our secular society sometimes does not celebrate or find all that relevant for its commercial purposes.

For you, sisters and brothers who are in the autumn and winter seasons of your life, give thanks to our loving God. Autumn and winter may bring cold and ice, snow and slippery streets as well as aching muscles and tendons, but we find our security and our warmth INSIDE, inside our minds and hearts. As we move from the first part of life to the second part, we find ourselves becoming more at peace within ourselves and with the God we meet within. It is inside that true warmth and happiness live, like the gentle glow and soft heat emanating from the family room hearth. From within we find the security, the strength, the warmth to still extend our hands and our hearts to family, acquaintances, and strangers despite our weariness and diminishing energy. We of the later seasons have borne the sweat and heat of spring and summer and we have come to appreciate that every season is significant, full of meaning and purpose, but most of all that they are blessings from God. This blessing of autumn and winter we embrace and transform in order to transmit to our sisters and brothers of the spring and summer seasons the life-giving news that God is good, life is good, all creation is good, and with God everything will be all right! “Be not afraid,” as Jesus has told us. Time is temporary; it is terminal, but as time makes its final turn on the calendar of life, the next page is clearly marked “eternity.” This is the season of life that never ends; it is the fulfillment of all our dreams and hopes, and the completion of the journey we make during our many struggling seasons on earth.

Fr. Dennet

]]>Tue, 05 Sep 2017 07:58:02 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-9-10-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-9-10-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersSeptember 2-3, 2017Holidays are refreshing and welcome breaks for the work force in our country. We especially enjoy what we call the three-day weekend (Saturday, Sunday, and Monday) however we may want to use that extra leisure time. When we speak about “labor” or “work” we may have different perspectives on the meaning of that activity. It may be helpful to reflect on the meaning and value and purpose of this God-given privilege and responsibility as we celebrate Labor Day 2017.

Work is a privilege, even though some people often see it more as a pain or punishment. Yes, work can be a burden; it can be stressful and even overwhelming at times, but maybe that is because of the way we look at it. A young agent working at a DMV location here told me recently, “Yes, the work here can be stressful and intimidating, if you let it be that way.” I was at her station to renew my driver’s license and I commented on how calm and peaceful she seemed in the midst of all the activity in that work place. Her approach to work, not to let the distractions and disturbances in the area unsettle her, showed me that she saw herself engaged in work that was a privilege, not a punishment, an opportunity, not a burden.

God gave us the ability to share in His work of on-going creation. Our gifts from God are our body, our mind, our heart, and our freedom, among many other particular gifts. In fact, all we are and all we have are gifts from God; all is gift! If we are grateful for these gifts, if we truly RECEIVE them graciously and gratefully, then using these gifts for the benefit of the common good of all will be for us an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Work is also a responsibility. We are stewards of God’s gifts to us as we are reminded in Matthew’s Gospel (10:7), “without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.” For the common good of all, God has blessed each one of us with gifts, blessings to be shared. Our response (responsibility) to God for all that we have is to build up and enrich, protect and develop His world in order to witness and teach and praise the goodness of our Creator. God revealed dramatically that He is Creator, Lord, and Redeemer of this sacred space when He came to dwell among us in the flesh, in the person of Jesus. Our responsibility to this revelation of God is to live and act as dutiful sisters and brothers of Jesus, and therefore as faithful daughters and sons of our Heavenly Father. Our work reveals and builds up God’s creation, which we have come to know and proclaim as the “kingdom of God.” A monastic mantra throughout the Christian era speaks to us of this responsibility. The mantra or teaching is “Ora et labora,” PRAY AND WORK. This is a basic teaching and practice of contemplative religious life. Such a way of life is not only for monks and nuns to follow; it is also an invitation and a challenge to all God’s people who want to “...seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.” (Matthew 6:33)

Fr. Dennet

]]>Mon, 28 Aug 2017 03:48:03 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-2-3-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-2-3-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersAugust 26-27, 2017“Back to school” notices seem to be everywhere at this time of year, especially in stores that sell school supplies. These reminders may cause some students to feel uneasy, even anxious or sad. The summer vacations can get boring at times, but the rigid routine of daily class-work and evening homework can often seem to deprive the young folks of a lot of desired leisure and play time. Therefore, “back to school” is not a promising or delightful reminder for our younger brothers and sisters.

In our Franciscan tradition, we foster the idea of “ongoing education” and “ongoing formation.” The premise and belief for this is that education and formation are continuing processes through our lives. Education and formation are not reserved for the young; nor do these aspects of life come to an end with a certain chronological year or with a graduation ceremony. Like the journey of developing faith which continues until we die, education and formation remain essential aspects of everyday human life and growth. If we are not growing in awareness of truth, compassion, and love, we are not really alive. Life means growth, and growth ends only with death.

We might let these “back to school” notices be a challenge as well as an opportunity for us. Though we may be past the age of formal schooling, we are not past the age of study, learning, and spiritual formation and growth. In this regard we can be “sitters” or “seekers.” “Sitters” are those who feel they learned all they need to know when they were in grade school or high school or sometime in their younger years. Their minds are closed, confident that their opinions and beliefs are unchangeable; their concepts are set in concrete! They have not only the correct answers, but the only possible answers! The “seekers” are different. These men and women are alive and always on a quest to discover something new and different to enrich their learning experiences. They seek to become the more conscious and mature persons that God made them to be. Such people read, discuss, participate in lectures and seminars, converse with spiritual directors, and engage in lofty conversations with their peers about their relationships with God. They are willing to be companioned, and to companion others on their journey of faith in everyday life.

God bless these “seekers” who continue to spur us on, encourage us, motivate us, and inspire us to persevere actively on our journey of faith. Perhaps the “back to school” signs can motivate all of us to have an enriching and, believe it or not, enjoyable school year!

Fr. Dennet

]]>Tue, 22 Aug 2017 03:23:21 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-26-27-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-26-27-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersAugust 19-20, 2017This past week we celebrated the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. On Tuesday of this week there is another Marian memorial, the Queenship of Mary. Both these remembrances highlight some aspect of Biblical teaching, although perhaps not as clearly as we might see at first glance. It might do us well to reflect on these two celebrations to better understand Mary’s place in our Christian/Catholic theology and spirituality.

The solemnity of the Assumption of Mary was a 20th century addition to the Church liturgical calendar. Pope Pius XII affirmed this as a doctrine of the Church in the year 1950. What makes this teaching important and relevant to us is that it reaffirms our belief in the “resurrection of the body and life everlasting” which we pray in our creedal formulas. In the NT we read that Jesus rose from the grave and ascended to His heavenly Father. From early times Christians believed that Mary also was taken to heaven after her death to be with her Son Jesus and God the Father. This tradition and belief speaks to us of a redeemed, risen, and restored humanity that is promised not only to the God-Man Jesus but also to those who believe in and obey the Word of God he proclaimed. Jesus revealed this message of redemption and reconciliation; Mary, His mother became the prime witness of humanity’s incorporation into the Body of Christ as she was assumed into heaven to be with her Son.

Mary’s ‘Queenship” may be something less familiar and less resonant with our theological understanding. To make a long story short, this teaching flows from the OT Biblical traditions of the role of the “Queen Mother.” The mother of the Israelite king in Biblical tradition was a prominent and influential resource to the King. She sat at her son’s right hand in the throne room. She gave advice to the king and often made intercessions to the king on behalf of the people he governed. This tradition of the “Queen-Mother” in Israel became applied to Mary early on in the history of the Church. Jesus was recognized and honored as the King of the Universe, and Mary, His mother, was seen as queen, in keeping with the Israelite tradition of royal governance. So, it is understandable that the Church has revered Mary not only as having been assumed into heaven, but also as Queen Mother who lives with her Son Jesus in the glory of God the Father. To find more information on the role of the Queen mother in OT Israel, you may want to research this history on the internet. Mary was quite familiar with the history and customs of her ancestors. We might honor Mary by becoming more familiar with the life and times of ancient Israel.

Fr. Dennet

]]>Fri, 18 Aug 2017 03:48:55 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-19-20-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-19-20-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersAugust 12-13, 2017During this past week I was scheduled to present a retreat in Pennsylvania to the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart. Because of an unexpected death in their community, they had to cancel the retreat. The theme I had planned for this retreat was “Gospel Simplicity.” Two prominent points I was going to communicate were: 1) “simple” does not mean “easy,” as in “painless,” or “without suffering,” but 2) “simple” does mean “uncomplicated,” as in “not difficult to understand.” I will try to explain briefly these two messages.

First, Gospel life is not painless; in fact, as we hear, it is the “way of the cross.” To live the Gospel is to be a true disciple of Jesus, and as we know, Jesus chose to embrace the crosses of human life—rejection, humiliation, false accusation, loneliness, scourging, and crucifixion—on His life journey. So must we as members of the human family and as members of the Body of Christ. Such is life on earth. We do not and cannot expect to live without suffering in body and in spirit. There is no life, no love that does not entail pain and loss; consequently, there is no life or love that does not demand our surrender. As Jesus would say “I have come not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me.” (John 6:38) Surrender is the basis of life and love, growth and peace, and it does not happen without suffering. Life and love are privileges from God, and every privilege entails responsibility. There is no privilege without pain, no love without self-giving, that is surrender.

Second, the Gospel message is quite clear and not difficult to understand. However, it is quite difficult to LIVE. The simplicity of the Gospel (Good News) message can be summed up briefly: God is good and God is always with us and for us. We are good, made in the image of God, and God wants the best for us, that is, God loves us. Everything we are and all that we have is God’s gift to us. We did not merit or earn it. It is God who provides and saves us! We all are asked to make our will conform to the will of God, to listen to Him not for His sake but for our own sake, that is, our happiness, peace, and security. We are asked to embrace life, its goodness, beauty and truth, along with its many surrenders and sufferings, and in this way we LET God who is forever-forgiving save us. Our self-surrendering leads us to intimate, life-giving relationships with God and with our brothers and sisters; our sufferings lead us to fullness of life beyond this present world of sorrows and joys.

Simplicity can be described in the phrase “Let go and let God.” It is the “letting go” that causes us so much distress and suffering, because “letting go” is exactly what “take up your cross and follow me” means. Our wear and wounded human nature want to HOLD ON tightly to whatever power we have in order to protect, defend (save), or promote ourselves. Thus, “letting go” demands a lot of trust and tremendous courage. See Luke 9:23 for the Biblical expression of this concept. Life can be simple if we are willing to embrace the reality of life. Life can be simple, easy to understand if we accept the basic premise of the Gospel, the Good News, “God is love, and whoever remains in love remains in God and God in him.” (1 John 4:16) This verse and the following verses (17-21) provide us with an inspiring reflection.

Fr. Dennet

]]>Tue, 08 Aug 2017 08:36:57 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-12-13-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-12-13-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersAugust 6-7, 2017Parish picnics are fun, especially when parishioners can eat and enjoy themselves on their own turf. The campus of Transfiguration parish is spacious and beautiful, colorful and clean, teeming with trees and God’s tiny creatures of the animal kingdom. How uplifting it is to watch the fawns and their mother graze and rest and run on our well-trimmed lawns. How inspiring is our Prayer Garden, truly a place for serene reflection and soothing silence. All these venues are refreshingly clean and carefully manicured to enhance their beauty. We, the parishioners, are truly blessed by God and we are good stewards of the land entrusted to us. Praise the Lord!

The Transfiguration of Jesus as recorded in Luke’s Gospel (as well as Matthew Ch. 17 and Mark Ch. 9) speaks powerfully to us of one of the prominent and pervasive Gospel themes. That theme is AFFIRMATION. God the Father affirms Jesus, His Son, “This is my chosen Son: listen to him.” (Luke 9:35) A similar affirmation is recorded earlier in this Gospel when John baptized Jesus at the Jordan River, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased. (Luke 3:22)

The ministry of Jesus was that of affirmation. He listened and spoke with those he met; he offered them healing of their diseases, bodily and emotional ills. To affirm is to heal, that is, to let others feel whole once again and to recognize their goodness. Jesus assured them of their personal worth, included them in His love and in the community of humanity. We are given healing when others show us attention, offer encouraging words and supportive service, when they invite us to journey with them through life’s many struggles. To take up our crosses and follow Jesus means that we, his disciples, “walk the walk” of affirmation. A smile at times will to this work; a word of congratulations, or a pat on the shoulder, a gentle hug, or a word of thanks or praise will bring healing and hope to our brothers and sisters. The greatest gifts we can offer to others are the smallest gifts, words and gestures wrapped in the cloak of warmth and sincerity.

As we meditate on the Transfiguration of Jesus we realize that this event was God’s assuring and affirming gesture of love for His son. This event on Mt. Tabor transformed the lives of the disciples who witnessed it! In turn, in our own day, as we reveal God’s love (affirmation) to others, our lives and theirs may be transformed. May the parish family picnic day be for us an occasion of the transforming power and practice of affirmation.

Fr. Dennet

]]>Thu, 03 Aug 2017 03:51:40 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-6-7-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-6-7-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersJuly 29-30, 2017Because I had scheduled to be a retreat director next week I will not be at Transfiguration parish on Sundays, August 6 or 13. While I was serving as Retreat Director in Easton, Pa. I made these plans without knowing about my new assignment here. The community for which I am presenting this retreat is the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart in Center Valley, Pa. It is a week-long retreat. I will return to this parish on Monday, August 14.

Retreats are special times of prayer, presentation input, and discussions that focus on our spiritual life, that is, our relationship with God and with the human family. In our post-modern society which is full of “busy-ness” and noise we find it difficult to engage in quiet and prayerful leisure time. And we find there is little silence available to let this inner work take place. The Sabbath rest mode of living has gradually seeped out of our social structure and interactions and we are left with the tension and stress arising from days of multi-tasking and restlessly moving from one activity to another, often having to speed from one venue to another.

We all need the Sabbath rest, which is more than merely sleeping later on Sunday morning. What we need for healthy bodily and emotional life is the leisure to just stop and be quiet in order to re-collect ourselves and be grateful. Such leisure gives us the inspiration and motivation to give praise and thanks to God for who we are and what we have been given. Psalm 46, verse 11 says it this way: “Desist! And confess that I am God…” Only in stillness and silence can we do the “inner work” of coming to know ourselves while discovering and discerning our relationship with God. Another way of expressing this human need is seen in Matthew 6:5-6. We see there that prayer is not mainly about words and rituals; it is about going to our “inner room” (the deep recesses of our heart) and listening to and conversing with our Heavenly Father.

There are a number of opportunities available to help us in this journey of faith. Among these opportunities are spiritual retreats, reflective reading, and spiritual direction. More immediately we can just STOP, SIT BACK, AND IN THE SPACE OF SILENCE try to “remember and be grateful.” Call it meditation, contemplation, or prayer of the heart, such time will generate serenity and peace into our weary and worried lives.

Fr. Dennet

]]>Wed, 19 Jul 2017 07:20:13 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-29-30-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-29-30-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersJuly 22-23, 2017Most U.S. dioceses during the summer months invite missionary orders and congregations to speak at their parishes to appeal for prayers and financial support. A missionary priest will be here at Transfiguration parish next weekend, July 29 and 30. No doubt he will inform us of the work of evangelization being done by members of his community and will share some stories about the people and places where they currently minister.

Jesus gave His disciples a mission and a ministry. He sent them, in other words, to preach and heal, to proclaim and witness to the Good News of God’s presence among us and of God’s ongoing love for His people. That is the mission given to us at Baptism; it is the ministry to which we all are privileged to commit ourselves. How we the Church fulfill this ministry may vary from person to person depending on the circumstances of our lives. Essentially, the work of being a missionary is just to BE WHERE GOD SENDS US, and there to witness (BE) GOD’S PRESENCE, CARE AND COMPASSION for our sisters and brothers in the human family. Some individuals may be able to do tasks that are more functional, for example, work in food pantries, or assist in the construction of houses with Habitat for Humanity, or serve as a catechist in the parish Rel. Ed. Program, etc. Others may practice their missionary calling in their compassionate and care-giving relationships among the people with whom they live and socialize. Whatever we do, our MISSION is one and the same’ it is our privilege and responsibility of living our Baptismal life in the Body of Christ. Yes, there are lay people along with clergy and religious men and women who volunteer to serve the needy in foreign countries or in their own country although away from their home and family. But wherever we may hear God call us to BE, our mission is to proclaim and witness the Gospel message. May we do this ministry generously and graciously, remember the Lord’s promise to us, “I will be with you all days, even to the end of the world.”

There is no doubt in my mind that Transfiguration parish has the awareness and the commitment to the mission of the Gospel. I saw this the first day I arrived here. The Vacation Bible School, the work being done in the food pantry, the visiting and ministry to the sick, the care of the beautiful grounds and buildings on this campus, just to name a few examples, proclaims the dedication and missionary spirit of our parishioners. For me this is “beauty.” In my way of thinking, beauty is the confluence and the congruence of differences. The many different members of this parish community, the many backgrounds and cultures they represent, together show forth the grandeur and goodness of our gracious God. Our parishioners proclaim the presence and goodness of God as a people on a mission, as children of a loving Father who bids people as a people of every race and nation to live at peace and in joy, bringing hope and healing to a weary and wounded world. May God give us His grace to keep up the generous work we have begun.

Thank you for your gracious welcome to me last weekend, July 8-9. After seven years serving as retreat director at St. Francis Retreat House in Easton, Pa. I am happy to be back in parish ministry here at Transfiguration Parish. It was in 1959 that I graduated from Duns Scotus College at Nine Mile and Evergreen; that was many years ago. After another four years of theological study, I was ordained to the priesthood in Dayton, Ohio in 1963. Southfield, Michigan looks a lot different to me now than it did in the late 50’s. During the time in between 1963 and 2017 I have had a wide range of assignments from our Franciscan Province of St. John the Baptist. For the first 14 years after ordination I ministered in New Mexico - Grants, Santa Fe, and Roswell. Then I was introduced to ministry in the African-American community where I spent the next 20 years - Kansas City, Mo., New Orleans and Lafayette, La. In the year 2000 I began something new - initial formation ministry in our Province. The first area of this ministry was in the Vocations Office. This was followed by seven years in our inter-Provincial novitiate as a director of novices. After these seven years I was assigned to my recent ministry in Easton Pa. I am still not unpacked as I type this article for the Sunday bulletin. Since this assignment came as somewhat of a surprise to me, I already had two retreats planned for August and November of this year. Because I need to honor these commitments I will be away from our parish for a couple of weeks when that time comes.

Again I thank you for accepting me as temporary pastor of your parish. The permanent pastor, Fr. Jeff Scheeler OFM will arrive in December and I will do ministry (retreats and substitution sacramental ministry) from my new friary, Duns Scotus III, where I am currently living. God bless you all. As you can see by the dates I note above, I am no “youngster.” However, I will try to do my best to be of service to you, the parishioners of Transfiguration Church.

Fr. Dennet Jung, OFM

p.s. If you want to know, as most people do, where the name “Dennet” came from, I am not surprised. That was the name given to me when I was given the Franciscan habit as a novice. At that time in church history and Franciscan practice, a new name was given to those entering religious life. Since everyone in our Province of 600 plus members was expected to have a different name, I was given the name “Dennet” which is a variation of the name Dennis. And yes, there is a canonized Saint in the annals of the Church by the name of Dennis. Hopefully, he doesn’t mind the reconfiguration of his name which I now bear!

We congratulate Sister M. Madonna Rougeau on her Golden Jubilee. She grew up in the parish and went to St. Michael School. Then she entered the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration in Mishawaka, Indiana. She has worked as a registered nurse and on the board of various hospitals. She was vice-president of mission at St. James Hospital in Chicago Heights before being named superior and administrator of the health care facility for the Sisters in Mishawaka. Congratulations to Sister Madonna and her mother Jane Rougeau and all her family, regular Franciscan Outreach volunteers.

Next weekend another Franciscan will join us for two weeks. We welcome Brother John Boissy who is in his second year of vows at our formation center in Chicago. He will be helping with Vacation Bible School July 17-21, Franciscan Outreach and other ministries. Besides attending De Paul University, John loves working with wood. Sister Madonna and Brother John remind us that we need more Sisters and Brothers! Pray for vocations.

Many feast days this week. On July 11th we celebrate St. Benedict, founder of Western Monasticism; the 14th Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, the patroness of Native Americans; and the 15th St. Bonaventure, Franciscan theologian and doctor of the Church. The Archdiocese requires that all Extraordinary Eucharistic Ministers be recertified every three years. This will be done after the noon Mass on July 9 and July 16. We thank you for your ministry here in Church and for taking Holy Communion to nursing homes and others unable to come to church.

Have you noticed the electronic door opener for the “handicapped” door under the old bell tower? It keeps the door open long enough for someone using a walker to enter. Also the religious education entrance has a new door. Thanks to Sharon Myers and staff! And the donors of rose bushes in the Little Flower garden have been identified.

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Fri, 07 Jul 2017 06:33:30 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-8-9-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-8-9-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersJuly 1-2, 2017We are blessed that Fr. Dennet Jung will be our interim pastor! He is a friendly, zealous Franciscan with much experience as a priest. He grew up in Cincinnati and began his Franciscan formation there. His next step was four years of college and philosophy at the former Duns Scotus College at Nine Mile and Evergreen in Southfield.

After ordination in 1963, he was assigned to the Southwest, serving as associate pastor in Grants, Farmington and the Cathedral in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He was known for his excellent religious education program for young people. In 1975 he became pastor of St. Peter's in Roswell, NM. Then he was chosen to be pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Kansas City, MO an African American parish that Saint Katherine Drexel helped found. In time he moved to pastor African-American parishes in New Orleans and Lafayette, LA.

In 2005, he was elected to the Provincial Council, the leadership team of the Franciscan Province of St. John the Baptist, where he served nine years, the maximum of three terms. At the same time he was the Interprovincial Novitiate staff.

He is coming to us from the St. Francis Retreat House in Easton, PA, where he served for seven years. He will be serving as our interim pastor but will be living at the new Duns Scotus Friary, located at the former rectory of Our Lady of La Salette in Berkley. He will celebrate Masses the weekend of July 8 and 9. Our permanent pastor, Fr. Jeffrey Scheeler, O.F.M., will be here for the First Sunday of Advent in November.

The Summer Academy, STEM tutoring is underway, but you can still sign up. Thanks to Dr. Aguwa.

About 70 attended the presentation of the Catholic Cemetery staff.

Thanks to former pastor Fr. Bob Weakley, for coming to help us this weekend! It is always good to see him.

We pray for our country on this Fourth of July weekend. God has blessed us as a nation! We pray that we as people of many heritages live as one, E pluribus unum and be instruments of peace.

The Mass on July 4 will be at 9:00 a.m. St. Anthony Novena prayers will follow. There will be no confessions or Mass at noon.

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Wed, 28 Jun 2017 08:08:02 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-1-2-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-1-2-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersJune 24-25, 2017We have met our Catholic Services Appeal goal! I'm sure Fr. Bill would want to join me in thanking all of you who have contributed. We have fallen short of our goal for a number of years, which meant paying the shortfall from our general parish funds, but this year you have surpassed our goal! Note also that any contributions made now are returned to our parish in full. Thanks and blessings for your generous support!

Thanks also to Diane Klucka and the Education Commission for their report and reception at each Mass last weekend. We all have to join in helping our young people grow in their faith. Right now we have the opportunity to invite children, grandchildren and neighbors--always with parent's approval, of course--to Vacation Bible School, July 17-21. Another great opportunity is the Summer Academy which begins June 24. Dr. Aguwa and his Wayne State graduate students will help the students improve in their core school subjects.

Our youth group with Joe Dallo is active again. I was happy to see the number of young people there when I dropped in on their meeting Friday, June 16th. The youth group meets every Friday of every month.

This Sunday, during Mass at 2:00 p.m., Gregory David, Maria Guardiole and Christopher Pyrkosz will make their permanent commitment to the Secular Franciscans as members of the St. Elizabeth Fraternity, which meets here at our parish. St. Francis did not set out to found an Order, yet interested people came to him; first men who became the First Order, then St. Clare and other women who became the Second Order, and then married and single lay people who became the Third Order. It is a way of catching the spirit of St. Francis and living his Gospel spirituality. If you are interested in more information regarding the Secular Franciscans, feel free to contact Sue Hayosh at 586-790-6066.

We welcome Fr. Bob Weakley, our former Pastor, to celebrate some of the Masses the weekend of July 1st and 2nd. Our interim Pastor, Fr. Dennet Jung, will arrive for the weekend of July 8th and 9th.

For the upcoming holiday, the Parish Office will be closed July 3rd and 4th, there will be no confessions on Tuesday, July 4th, and Mass is at 9:00 a.m.. Have a wonderful Fourth of July!

Fr. Jeremy

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-24-25-2017Sharon MyersSharon MyersJune 17-18, 2017Blessings on all of our fathers, those living and those who have gone to their reward. The painting in front of the church of St. Joseph holding the Child Jesus expresses for me a father's love and care. We pray for all fathers. Many of us would agree with the tribute Tim Russert gave to his father, "The older I get, the smarter my father seems to get. Hardly a day goes by when I don't remember something that Big Russ taught me."

Thanks to all of you who participated in Fr. Bill's 40th anniversary as a Franciscan priest and for those who planned and prepared for the grand celebration--Sharon, Paula, Amy, Diane, John, Charly and Collin. The choir under the direction of Steve Siemion moved our hearts and expressed our prayers and gratitude. David and Barbara provided beautiful flowers. The Mass and reception are evidence of what enthusiastic and generous parishioners you are.

This Sunday we are celebrating Corpus Christi, the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. We can never be thankful enough for the Real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.

We continue to pray for Fr. Bill and to carry on all the good things he began. He urged us to read the pastoral letter of Archbishop Vigneron, "Unleash the Gospel". We could start living it now by inviting parents to enroll their children in Vacation Bible School, July 17-21, Also, we can be alert to anyone who may have interest in our RCIA program beginning in September. They can Contact Mike Dillon or Fr. Jeremy or the parish office.

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Tue, 27 Jun 2017 08:49:56 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-17-18-2017-606850
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-17-18-2017-606850Sharon MyersSharon MyersJune 10-11, 2017Last week I referred to the pastoral letter which Archbishop Vigneron issued on June 3rd. I urge everyone to begin reading it. You can find it online at this website: unleashthegospel.org The pastoral council received a copy of it last Monday evening. I have sent a copy to Fr. Dennet (who will take my place for six months) and to Fr. Jeff Scheeler (who will arrive in late November.) I look forward to hearing about how the New Pentecost will transform our parish.

I will be celebrating mass for the feast of St. Anthony this coming Tuesday, and then I will leave on Wednesday morning. I am quite sad to be going. My Franciscan family has asked me to take this position, and I trust that it is for the best. If you aren't able to attend the social after the 12:00 pm mass, here is my contact information:

]]>Mon, 12 Jun 2017 03:20:34 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-10-11-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-10-11-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 3-4, 2017Its been a week since I shared with you the results of our provincial election and the new work that I am suddenly called to do. The sorrow at having to leave Transfiguration Parish still outweighs any other considerations. I would like to give you some idea of what the position of provincial vicar involves, but everything is still new to me. I'll share my new address and other contact information with you when I have those detailed worked out.

I will have only one or two more articles to write for the bulletin. If all goes well, by the time you are reading this you will know who is coming to take my place. The celebration of my forty years of ordination will take place as planned on June 11, but it will also have to be my farewell to you.

Thank you for your generous support of the CSA. As of May 25 (our Memorial Day deadline for the bulletin) you have brought us to 88.28% of our parish goal, with a total of $40, 297 pledged so far. Be sure to check the online giving option on our website. Just click on "2017 CSA online giving."

]]>Mon, 05 Jun 2017 05:21:34 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-3-4-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-3-4-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 27-28, 2017Welcome again, Bishop Hurley, to our parish. We are delighted that you are able to come for our eight confirmations. I met with them last week for their final interview, and they are ready to begin their lives as fully-initiated Catholics.

Perhaps you noticed in the bulletin a special flyer about our planned summer session for our young students who want to develop their knowledge of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (abbreviated as STEM). Thank you, Dr. Celestine Aguwa, for bringing forward this program. Please contact our front office or our information desk in the gathering area if you have a child you would like to register for the program. It will be held on Saturday mornings, from 10 am to noon beginning at the end of June.

With Monday's being Memorial Day, our daily mass will be held at 9:00 am instead of noon. I hope to see many of you at this Mass.

]]>Mon, 05 Jun 2017 05:18:20 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-27-28-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-27-28-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 20-21, 2017In just two weeks we celebrate the great solemnity of Pentecost, God's gift of the Holy Spirit sent into the world. Jesus has assured us of this gift. "I will ask the Father and he will give you another Advocate, the Spirit of truth. . . ." It is now up to us to believe in and receive this gift anew. Let us pray that the Holy Spirit will further complete Jesus' saving work in our lives.

We will be discerning our membership for the Pastoral Council and the Commissions at the 10:00 am mass on Pentecost Sunday, June 4. Please be open to accepting a term of service on one of these important bodies.

Let us pray this week for our eight confirmation candidates, whose celebration takes place next Saturday. I am interviewing all eight of them this coming week, so that I can confidently present them to Bishop Hurley at the confirmation Mass. Pray especially that our young people (and their families) will come to see this sacrament as more than a completion of initiation into the faith. Truly it is the beginning of their full involvement in the faith and in the ministries of the parish.

Fr. Jeremy, Bro. Phil and I will be keeping you in our prayers while we are at our chapter meeting at St. Meinrad this week.

]]>Sun, 28 May 2017 05:30:57 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-20-21-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-20-21-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 13-14, 2017Happy Mothers Day to all you who are being honored today. If you are reading this on Sunday, don't skip the breakfast prepared especially for our mothers (who eat free today) and being served up to 12:00 pm.

The mail is bringing in CSA envelopes every day. Thanks to all who have made their commitment to this important appeal. The friars are doing their part to help the parish reach an average gift of $250.00 per household too, since we also benefit from services provided by the Archdiocese. If you've had trouble connecting to the online giving site, please give our parish office a call.

I would also like to remind you again that the Franciscans will be away from May 22-26th for an assembly in St. Meinrad, IN. Mass and Tuesday confessions will continue to be celebrated at the usual times during the week.

]]>Mon, 15 May 2017 03:47:26 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-13-14-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-13-14-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 6-7, 2017One of our favorite social events is the Mothers Day brunch taking place next weekend. Will you take the time after the Sunday morning masses (and before the 12:00 pm mass) to celebrate this special day with your mother? Thanks to the Mens Club for supporting our Mothers Day brunch.

The church promotes today as the World Day of Prayer for vocations. We added the official prayer (see below) to our intercessions at all the masses. However, these world day of prayers for various causes are meant to raise our awareness for daily prayer. At the end of the weekend, we'll collect all the prayer cards and make them available to you to use beyond this one day of prayer. Pray for young people to serve this archdiocese, our Franciscan province and the mission fields around the world.

Here is the prayer we used, sent to us by the Archdiocese of Detroit's vocation office:

God our Father, we thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son's Kingdom as priests, deacons, religious, and consecrated persons. Send your Holy Spirit to help us respond generously and courageously to your call. May our community. of faith support vocations of sacrificial love in our youth. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

]]>Wed, 10 May 2017 05:16:40 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-6-7-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-6-7-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 29-30, 2017May is just around the corner, and as always, it will be a busy month for the parish: First Communion, Mothers Day, and Confirmations, to name a few. May also brings our triennial provincial chapter meeting, a gathering of the friars in which we chart our lives and elect our leadership. Sometimes these meetings bring about unexpected changes into our lives as friars. We would appreciate your prayers in the days ahead.

The chapter will be held at St. Meinrad Archabbey in southwest Indiana, beginning on Monday, May 22 and concluding on Friday May 26. During the week Fr. George Berendt from the PIME Fathers will be celebrating masses and reconciliation.

At some point in the near future you will be receiving a communication from the Catholic Funeral and Cemetery Services. It will contain a survey and an invitation. The survey seeks information on your end-of-life plans regarding your funeral and burial. The invitation is to an information session on June 24/25th, after the 4:30, 8 and 10 masses. I feel it is important to consider such matters well before circumstances make it urgent and rushed. Please consider attending one of the sessions.

Next Sunday is the World Day of Prayer for Vocations.

Don't forget the informational forum on immigration on Sunday afternoon at 3:00pm at the Southfield Public Library.

]]>Mon, 01 May 2017 05:24:58 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-29-30-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-29-30-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 22-23, 2017Welcome Fr. Greg to our parish. We look forward to hearing about Unbound ministry. I am in St. Louis this weekend to celebrate my nephew's wedding and am thankful that Fr. Greg can schedule his work with Unbound on this weekend.

Thanks again to the many volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the parish ready for Easter. We had a number of visitors join us for the Easter masses; all were very impressed by the decoration, participation and music. Speaking of music, the choir performed beautifully throughout Holy Week. Thanks for your dedication and willingness to rehearse so much.

Have you ever wondered who provides our endless supply of altar linen? A very small group of volunteers takes turns washing and carefully ironing our purificators and corporals. We use 20 purificators for the 4 weekend masses, and usually 13 for weekdays. If you would like to enter the rotation and help this group, they would very much appreciate one or two more people. Someone will give you all the instructions you need. Call the parish office and ask for Paula Hillman to get started.

Cleaning the church is a weekly task, and the volunteers who do this work area are asking for two or three people to join them. The work is done on Saturday morning. Again, Paula Hillman can answer any questions you may have.

If you have a family member in need of a hospital visit, I urge you to contact the parish office as soon as possible. Fr. Jeremy and I make it a priority to care for the sick. You can easily leave a message in our voice mail box if the office is unattended when you call.

]]>Mon, 24 Apr 2017 04:12:04 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-22-23-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-22-23-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 15-16, 2017Happy Easter! May the joy of this season fill all the parts of your heart that the penances of Lent have purified. From a prayer of sorrow we move to a prayer of joy; from fasting we move to feasting, and may our alms giving which must never stop, now be seasoned by the hope of a new beginning.

Thanks for all who have contributed to the observances of this past Lent: those who led the Stations of the Cross, volunteers at our fish fries, and have assisted for the last three intense days of the Sacred Triduum. I hope that this day will bring your families together and give you a new resolve to live our faith as joyful missionary disciples!

I will be leaving this Wednesday to celebrate my nephew's wedding in St. Louis. I thought this would be a good opportunity to invite the organization "Unbound" to introduce themselves to you. A priest, Fr. Greg Schmitt, a Redemptorist priest from Chicago will speak at all the masses and have information for you on Unbound. There will not be a second collection, but only the hope that you will want to share in Unbounds mission "to invite people of good will to live in daily solidarity with the world’s poor through one-to-one sponsorship."

This Tuesday begins a nine week novena to St. Anthony leading up to the celebration of his feast on June 13.

]]>Mon, 24 Apr 2017 04:11:32 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-15-16-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-15-16-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 8-9, 2017Holy Week has begun, bringing with it a deeper spiritual intensity. It is up to each of us to determine how much of this intensity we allow into our hearts. Your presence during the Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday services is the best way to drink deeply of the graces leading us to Easter Sunday. If you are unable to attend services, the Word Among Us booklet carries the scriptures and meditations of Holy Week to help you live into these holy days.

Remember that Good Friday is a day of fasting and abstaining from meat. Any extra penance you can do on this day will link your heart more closely to Jesus' heart.

Holy Saturday will be quiet until the service at 8:30 pm, but you may be interested in the blessing of the Easter food baskets which will take place at 1:00 pm in the church. Later at 3:00 pm the Mens Club will host the annual Easter Egg hunt near the ball field.

Your prayers for former pastor Fr. Bill Ollendick will be appreciated. Last week, in Cincinnati where he now lives, he fell in his room broke his hip. Fr. Bill had successful surgery but developed viral pneumonia a few days later. As I write this he is still in intensive care. If you would like to send him a get-well note, his home address is St. Clement Friary, 4536 Vine St. Cincinnati, OH 45217.

]]>Tue, 11 Apr 2017 02:59:49 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-8-9-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-8-9-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 1-2, 2017Our final fish fry is coming up this Friday evening. If you haven't yet enjoyed the fish and the fellowship of these evening meals, you have one more opportunity this coming Friday. Many thanks to the Mens Club and other generous volunteers for providing what really shouldn't be called a penance (because the food always tastes so good!)

The Discipleship Commission will be very present in the gathering room this weekend, offering to the parish two sign-up stations. The first is for the Taste of Transfiguration which will be held in a few weeks on Saturday, April 29th. If you have a dish from your home country you would like to share, we'd like you to be part of "The Taste." Instructions will be provided for those who sign up.

The third and final phase of ChristLife, Sharing Christ, will be beginning on April 25th. Anyone who has completed the first two phases is welcome to join us for the third set of evening sessions.

After masses next weekend (April 8-9) Joe Dallo and our youth group will be hosting a "Cocoa for Coats" hospitality gathering after all the masses. Please come and let our youth group thank you for your coat donations in December and January. Congratulations to Joe and Maria, by the way, on the birth of their first child this past weekend!

]]>Mon, 03 Apr 2017 08:51:21 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-1-2-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-1-2-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 25-26, 2017We've reached the half-way point of Lent, and I hope that you are in the rhythm of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. As I've mentioned already, this Wednesday evening is our reconciliation service. I hope that your evening is clear to join us for an experience of our Lord's mercy. This Lent I will have helped out with six other parish or school reconciliation services, including this Saturday evening's one at LaSalette Parish with our confirmation candidates.

Looking ahead in the calendar, I see that at the end of April we have our annual "Taste of Transfiguration" dinner on Saturday, April 29th. You'll see a place to sign up for this event in the gathering room this weekend. This is a very enjoyable evening, and an opportunity to showcase the cooking you grew up with and to share that special dish with other parishioners.

]]>Mon, 27 Mar 2017 03:53:34 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-25-26-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-25-26-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 18-19, 2017It is not to early to set a date for an encounter with our merciful God. The sacrament of reconciliation gains much prominence during the Lenten season, and rightly so. What we pledge on Ash Wednesday (to repent and believe in the Gospel) is effectively carried out through the merciful encounter with our Lord in confession. Gone are the days when many feared to be shamed in the confessional. Priests who hear confessions today understand how hard it is for everyone to speak aloud to another human being their weakness, sin and failure.

In addition to the regular 10:30 am Tuesday and 1:00 pm Saturday confession, our parish will offer a communal penance service on Wednesday, March 29th at 7:00 pm. As in the past, there will be priests from other parishes to help out. Our Advent service fell victim to inclement weather and poor publicity. Fr. Jeremy and I will be reminding you about this service frequently in the days ahead. There is nothing more comforting than to hear the words "I absolve you from your sins!"

]]>Mon, 20 Mar 2017 03:54:24 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-18-19-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-18-19-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 11-12, 2017Every year we host two missionary speakers, one through our Franciscan missionary cooperative, and another from national organizations such as Bread for the World. On the weekend of April 22-23, the organization Unbound is sending Fr. Greg Schmitt, a Redemptorist priest from Chicago, to speak on behalf of this ministry. (It just so happens that I will be in St. Louis celebrating my nephew's wedding that same weekend.)

Unbound was once known as the Christian Foundation for Children. Later it became the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging, and then in 2013, Unbound. Its mission is "to invite people of good will to live in daily solidarity with the world’s poor through one-to-one sponsorship." Fr. Greg will explain the work of Unbound at each mass and invite you to how the organization reaches out to individuals living in poverty. The bulletin will carry more information as we come closer to April 22-23.

Thanks to the Mens Club volunteers who served over 160 carry-out fish lunches on Ash Wednesday. Our noon mass was packed with people, and our evening mass was more than I expected. The attendance was a clear sign of how much we need and long for spiritual renewal in our life. My prayers for you continue as we begin our second week of Lent. Please keep in your prayers Bob, Alex, Josh and Dexter who are preparing for the Easter sacraments.

]]>Mon, 20 Mar 2017 03:53:52 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-11-12-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-11-12-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 4-5, 2017Lent always begins with a packed Ash Wednesday mass and a surge of good intentions to make this the best Lent ever. We had overflowing pews at our noon mass, and our supply of ashes is greatly diminished. The same is true of every parish around the world. I'm ever encouraged by the signs of a true thirst for God that we experience as Lent begins.

Often I see the original fervor begin to wane as the cost of keeping to our resolutions for six weeks begins to make itself felt. The habits of the 46 other weeks of the year bear down on us. We must renew the determination of Ash Wednesday each day of Lent, pushing against the indifference to spiritual things that never completely goes away. I invite you to join with me in making each day of Lent count for itself. Jesus wants to make himself known to us personally throughout these forty days.

At our last pastoral council meeting, I reported on a safety assessment that an officer from the Southfield police conducted for our parish. Three of us from the parish staff spent most of an afternoon walking through the building and around the property with Officer Buckberry. She had many suggestions to make about improving our security, not only on weekends, but also in the normal course of conducting weekly ministry at the parish. I will periodically report back to you and the pastoral council as we implement her recommendations.

]]>Mon, 06 Mar 2017 08:26:35 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-4-5-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-4-5-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 25-26, 2017I picked up one of the last copies of "The Word Among Us" which we made available to the parish last weekend. Many of you are already preparing to enter into the spirit of Lent with great enthusiasm. I am eager to walk with you through these forty days towards a renewed life of joyful discipleship. If anything, read the short essays in the front of the booklet. They will help you stay focused on what Lent is meant to be for us.

Also beginning on March 1 is the spring 40 Days for Life, a national observance of the pro-life movement which features Prayer and fasting, a constant vigil and community outreach to end abortion. I encourage you, if you have time on Friday afternoons, to join other parishioners at the Northland Family Planning Clinic by the Tapestry Banquet Hall on Evergreen Rd. We pray there every Friday afternoon at 1 pm. for an hour.

The Archdiocese is hosting a discernment day for college students and young professionals who are looking for direction sensing a call to religious life. The day will be held at Mercy Center in Farmington Hills on March 18th. You can find the flyer with more information on our bulletin board. Perhaps you know someone who could benefit from this day.

]]>Mon, 27 Feb 2017 03:50:13 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-25-26-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-25-26-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 18-19, 2017You will soon be seeing our Lenten schedule in the bulletin, since Ash Wednesday, March 1, is only a week and a half away. If our noon mass does not fit in your work schedule, please come to our evening Mass. Ordinarily we have adoration on the afternoon and early evening of the first Wednesday of the month. With Ash Wednesday occurring on the first Wednesday, adoration will be moved to the second Wednesday.

Now is the time to begin praying about the graces God wants to give us during the season of Lent. Where is the Spirit stirring in your life? What is changing and what needs renewing in your life? On Ash Wednesday we will hear the challenge to look with new eyes on three things: our practices of prayer, of fasting and of almsgiving. Check our bulletin next week for the full schedule of Lenten activities.

Save the date: on March 30th the clergy association of Southfield will hold a an information evening on the topic of immigration. The site is still being worked out, but the program will go from 7:00 to 8:30 pm and will feature a panel of experts. I hope we can have a good representation from the parish.

Since last Tuesday our country has been celebrating National Marriage Week; it will end this Tuesday on Valentine's Day. It is a week dedicated to strengthening marriages. Today let us pray for all who are married, especially for those who are in the early years of marriage, that love will continue to grow and be fruitful.

Marriage is mentioned in this Sunday's gospel, once again from the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus points us deeper into several areas of human life, and he does so in order that we might bring the law to fulfillment. One of those areas is married life. Although he focuses his commands on divorce, Jesus wants each person of faith to find the fullness of blessing, especially in married life. Jesus gives us himself as the example of sacrificial love.

Catholics believe that marriage comes as a gift from the hand of God. The Catholic vision of marriage is rooted in Sacred Scripture and is expressed in the teachings and practices of the Church, containing these main elements:

- Marriage unites a couple in faithful and mutual love- Marriage opens a couple to giving life- Marriage is a way to respond to God’s call to holiness- Marriage calls the couple to be a sign of Christ’s love in the world

I recommend this website for more information on the Catholic teachings and how the Church supports married life: http://www.foryourmarriage.org Do you have a major wedding anniversary this year? Later in the spring the parish will help you celebrate with a special meal. We are still working out the date.

]]>Mon, 27 Feb 2017 03:49:08 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-11-12-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-11-12-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 4-5, 2017Isaiah's prophecy in our first reading today is so timely as the recent executive orders on immigration and a wall on our southern border stir controversy in the USA and beyond. These initiatives have drawn comment from our own archbishop as well as other church leaders. In case you didn't read Archbishop Vigneron's recent statement to the local council of Imams in Michigan, I include part of it here: "Please know that the Catholic community will continue to speak out and care for immigrants and refugees, no matter their religion or their country of origin. As I said in my statement last month: 'Our local community in metro-Detroit is much richer for the contributions of our brothers and sisters from Mexico and El Salvador, from India and Pakistan, from Iraq and Syria, from China and Korea, from Ukraine and Poland, from Cameroon and Nigeria.'”

Speaking for all the bishops of the United States, Bishop Joe Vásquez, the chair of the US Bishops committee on migration has also responded: "We strongly disagree with the Executive Order's halting refugee admissions. We believe that now more than ever, welcoming newcomers and refugees is an act of love and hope. We will continue to engage the new administration, as we have all administrations for the duration of the current refugee program, now almost forty years. We will work vigorously to ensure that refugees are humanely welcomed in collaboration with Catholic Charities without sacrificing our security or our core values as Americans, and to ensure that families may be reunified with their loved ones."

I hope you will join me in praying that all elected officials have the strength and wisdom to carry out their duties in the spirit of Isaiah's words: "If you bestow your bread on the hungry and satisfy the afflicted, then light shall rise for you in the darkness...."

]]>Mon, 27 Feb 2017 03:48:33 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-4-5-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-4-5-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 28-29, 2017Is the winter cold and flu season taking its toll on you? Come back next weekend for the blessing of throats. After the closing song, form lines as we do when you receive communion and receive a blessing for your throat "and for all other illness." This is one of those times when we can celebrate a solidarity with one another which helps us endure our times of sickness. Friday is the actual feast of St. Blaise, and we will bring out the candles on that day too.

The World Day for the Sick occurs on February 11th this year. In observance of that day, we will celebrate the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick at the Saturday 4:30 pm mass and on the Sunday 10:00 am mass.

Pope John Paul II initiated the day in 1992 to encourage people to pray for those who suffer from illness and for their caregivers. The Pope himself had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s a year before, in 1991, and it is considered that his own illness was impetus for his designation of the day. February 11 is also the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. An interesting fact: Pope Benedict XVI declared his decision to resign from his post as the Pope on this day in 2013, giving his failing health as the reason behind his decision.

Next weekend we also welcome the Little Sisters of the Poor from Toledo who come every year to speak about their ministry to the poor elderly. They will be taking up a collection at the end of mass and certainly appreciate your generosity!

Thank you for your gift today to our St. Vincent de Paul conference.

]]>Mon, 27 Feb 2017 03:47:53 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-28-29-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-28-29-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 21-22, 2017One of my favorite parish events is just around the corner: our adult volunteer appreciation dinner on February 3rd. We have been reminding our volunteers to sign up for the past two weekends. I am always thankful for you who expand the ministry of the parish through your hard work. I know I am speaking for our entire staff when I say this.

This coming Wednesday we celebrate the episcopal ordination of two new auxiliary bishops: Robert J. Fisher and Gerard W. Battersby. I plan to attend the ordination. Due to the limited seating at the cathedral, the ordination mass will be streamed through the AOD website, making the service available to everyone who would like to see it.

I have been reflecting upon the gospel for this Sunday, about four fishermen who are abruptly summoned to a different life through their encounter with Jesus. So has it been for all who follow Jesus. Both Fr. Fisher and Fr. Battersby will be leading much different lives in the years ahead. Let us keep them in our prayers.

And speaking of following Christ, our second phase of ChristLife has 23 participants registered. As I write this on an icy Tuesday morning, it is unclear whether or not we will have to cancel, but I know that everyone who takes part in the sessions will be greatly enriched.

]]>Mon, 23 Jan 2017 02:43:17 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-21-22-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-21-22-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 14-15, 2017Our pastoral council meeting this coming Monday will continue a discussion about our spiritual theme for 2017. At our November meeting, the council proposed that we follow up the Year of Mercy with another guiding theme to enrich our parish spiritual life. The council wanted this theme to connect with the November Synod on Evangelization. The following phrase captured the message of the synod: becoming a joyful band of missionary disciples.

This phrase came from the novena prayer we said in the days leading up to the Synod. Our parish commissions: Education, Christian Service, Worship and Discipleship, are being asked to develop activities to help us live into this challenging theme. From time to time I will offer reflections on how we can be missionary disciples.

Archbishop Vigneron will be sharing the fruits of the Synod when we reach the feast of Pentecost. I think we would do well to begin right now to ready our hearts to receive his message and direct our parish activities along these lines.

]]>Mon, 16 Jan 2017 01:45:25 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-14-15-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-14-15-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 7-8, 2017This coming Tuesday one of our Franciscans, originally from Detroit, will be buried here. Fr. Rock Travnikar was one of the first friars I got to know when I came to Southfield in 1968 to begin my college studies. He began as a brother, but discerned a call to the priesthood and was ordained several months ahead of me. In recent years he served as pastoral minister in a retirement community in Tampa. The funeral will be at 10:00 am on January 10th.

Did one of your New Year's resolutions have anything to do with becoming better acquainted with the bible? You are welcome to join our Thursday evening bible study which has resumed its meetings in the Duns Scotus Room on Thursday evening. Our Tuesday morning bible study continues to meet at 8:45 am in the same place.

On Tuesday, January 17th, we resume our ChristLife program and offer the second of three parts: Following Christ. I hope that those who attended the first session will continue, even if the first session dates back to the last winter when we offered ChristLife for the first time. You'll find a list of the topics for Following Christ elsewhere in this bulletin.

]]>Tue, 10 Jan 2017 01:41:13 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-7-8-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-7-8-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 31-January 1, 2017One of the calendar oddities about this year (it began with Christmas and New Year falling on Sundays) is need to move the Feast of the Holy Family to this past Friday. Usually the feast occurs on a Sunday, when families have the opportunity to reflect upon their call to holiness by celebrating the unique Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. We've already passed this feast, but I wanted to offer a few reflections in hindsight.

What are the characteristics of a holy family in this early part of the 21st century? In many ways, nothing has changed in the family call to be holy: we must have faith, live in hope, and practice love. Holiness is best nurtured within a community of faith, in company with others striving for the same ideals. A commitment to receiving the sacraments, especially to the Eucharist and Reconciliation, makes the demands for holiness easier to meet. Such as been the case from the beginning of the Church.

Every age has its own unique challenges to holiness, and our times are no exception. A holy family today must find time for prayer. It must resist the invasion of materialism, and the spread of empty entertainments. Parishes must do their part to nourish spirituality, especially through the years between the sacraments of Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation.

I hope to promote in all the families of the parish a deeper understanding of our celebration of the mass. A small effort is already underway and available to you before and after mass. Each week two different videos on the mass are playing in the gathering room. They are short and easy to follow. Please take a moment to watch each week. In the months ahead we'll be making other efforts to grow in our understanding of the mass.

]]>Sun, 01 Jan 2017 02:27:18 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-31-january-1-2017
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-31-january-1-2017Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 24-25, 2016The parish staff and our Franciscan community wish you all a very blessed Christmas! We hope that the Christmastide will be more like holy days than holidays. Many of you made these days holy through long hours at work in our Franciscan Outreach. Both the number of people served and the low temperatures hit records during December. You will all be in our prayers as we remember once again the Word Made Flesh. Thanks to you for all the kind expressions of Christmas caring.

One early Christmas gift received by Fr. Jeremy on December 14th deserves special mention to the whole parish. He has finished the prescribed 6 months of chemotherapy, and was informed recently that his cancer is in remission. Fr. Jeremy really appreciates the prayers you said for him; he felt very supported through his months of treatment.

As mentioned last week, the parish offices will be closed on the week of the 26th as well as January 2nd. The staff and friars will be available in case of emergencies during that time. Masses and confessions will continue as usual. The new year's eve weekend mass schedule will be the same as any other weekend.

]]>Sun, 01 Jan 2017 02:26:40 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-24-25-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-24-25-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 17-18, 2016We don't have four full weeks of Advent every year. Usually this fourth week lasts only a few days. The calendar gives us the complete experience of waiting, and leads us into the weekend for our Christmas celebration. I hope the younger members of our parish will find the patience to wait those few extra days.

You probably already noticed that we are keeping with our normal Sunday Mass schedule on Christmas eve and Christmas day, and have added the later evening 10:00 pm mass on Saturday. We still need some volunteers to cover all the ministries at most of the masses.

The parish offices will be closed from December 26th through January 2nd. Please don't let that stop you from contacting us if there is any kind of emergency during this time. We'll be available as needed. I will be attending the wedding for my nephew on December 30th in Fort Wayne and will be away for a couple days.

]]>Sun, 01 Jan 2017 02:26:17 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-17-18-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-17-18-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 10-11, 2016 We are beginning the 3rd week of Advent; the days slip by so quickly for all of us. Ask me if I have finished sending out my Christmas cards - ask me if I have even addressed the envelopes yet! Perhaps writing this out on Monday will motivate me to have some progress to report this weekend. I hope that the busy days have allowed you some quiet time with the Lord to ponder once again the deeper meanings of these holy days.

If your schedule allows, consider giving witness for life on Friday afternoons at 1:00 pm. During the fall 40 Days for Life, a group of parishioners faithfully kept vigil at the Northland Family Planning Center on Evergreen Rd. They decided to keep meeting for the foreseeable future. You are welcome to join them in their witness. Contact the parish office if you wish to participate, at whatever frequency you are able.

I want to give you one final reminder about the Advent Reconciliation Service that will take place this Wednesday evening at 7:00 pm. On December 20, you can also join Our Lady of Sorrows or Shrine Parish for their services. Of course, you may run into Fr. Jeremy or myself at these services!

]]>Mon, 12 Dec 2016 07:08:42 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-10-11-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-10-11-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 3-4, 2016You may have noticed the television in the gathering room last weekend. I've come across a series of 31 short videos which covers many different aspects of the Mass in short, understandable episodes. Each week we'll have 2 videos looping before and after each weekend liturgy. I hope they will help us all come to a better understand and appreciation of the Mass. During the remaining Sundays of Advent you'll see videos on the following topics:

The Role of the ParishionerThe Church Building

Processions in the MassSigns and Symbols

Sacramental SignsPurpose of the Mass

On December 14th we host one of the Vicariate Reconciliation Services. I invite you to make the sacrament of confession a part of your Advent preparation. Several priests from our vicariate are coming to help Fr. Jeremy and myself. This is a good point to begin sharing some passages from Pope Francis' Apostolic Letter, Misericordia etmisera (Mercy with misery). In paragraph 10 he addresses all priests who hear confessions:

"I invite priests once more to prepare carefully for the ministry of Confession, which is a true priestly mission. I thank all of you from the heart for your ministry, and I ask you to be welcoming to all, witnesses of fatherly tenderness whatever the gravity of the sin involved, attentive in helping penitents to reflect on the wrong they have done, clear in presenting moral principles, willing to walk patiently beside the faithful on their penitential journey, far-sighted in discerning individual cases and generous in dispensing God’s forgiveness. Just as Jesus chose to remain silent in order to save the woman caught in adultery from the sentence of death, so every priest in the confessional should be open-hearted, since every penitent is a reminder that he himself is a sinner, but also a minister of mercy."

]]>Mon, 12 Dec 2016 07:08:16 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-3-4-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-3-4-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 26-27, 2016Today is the first Sunday of Advent and the beginning of a new year of worship. We will hear from the gospel of Matthew on most Sundays in this cycle. Why not begin Advent by coming to our Thursday evening bible study with Sr. Helen Therese Bodziak? This group does a prayerful study of the coming Sunday's readings, and it helps the participants to gain more out of the Sunday mass. Along the way, they come to understand how the four gospels are quite distinct from one another, each with its own appreciation of Jesus.

The Franciscan have provided an Advent reflection booklet to the parish, free of charge. It is small enough to keep in your pocket or purse, and will help you to stay in tune with the spirit of the Advent season. You'll find these booklets in the gathering room. Please take one.

We have gluten-free hosts available for those who need them. Here is the procedure: stop by the vesting sacristry in the back of church at least 10 minutes before mass. Fr. Jeremy or myself will give you a pyx and let you place one of the special hosts in the pyx. It will be placed on the altar for consecration, apart from the pyxes with hosts for the homebound. Remember to be in the line where the priest is distributing the hosts, and tell him quietly that you are receiving the gluten-free host. He will bring the pyx to you to receive communion. (Be aware that a visiting priest may not be familiar with this procedure.)

]]>Mon, 28 Nov 2016 02:34:08 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-26-27-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-26-27-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 19-20, 2016The friars and parish staff wish you all a blessed Thanksgiving. Every mass is certainly the deepest possible expression of Thanksgiving, but we still need this holiday to gather with our family (if possible) and express to one another a deeply-felt thanks. I will be in Indiana with some of my own family on Thursday and Friday, weather permitting.

Please gather with our family of faith on Thanksgiving Day at 9:00 am for our annual Thanksgiving mass. These holiday masses bring together our parish in a unique way, as a time to worship with those who may choose a different weekend mass. Fr. Jeremy looks forward to offering this special mass with you.

Sunday night is our turn to host the annual interfaith Thanksgiving Service. We begin at 7:00 pm. Bring a canned good with you. Everything collected at this service will go to the Franciscan Outreach.

]]>Mon, 28 Nov 2016 02:33:42 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-19-20-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-19-20-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 12-13, 2016We are entering into the final week of the Holy Year of Mercy. Looking back over this past year, I find that my own spirit was touched by the recurring and persistent call to accept and to give mercy. I hope that the practice of mercy has taken root in all of us. Did this year bring anything new into our lives? Or did we grow tired of hearing the word repeated so many times? I become more aware of how our words of worship so frequently celebrate the mercy of God.

After November 20th, we don't retire the word or check it off as a task accomplished. I pray that the mercy of God has become a permanent resident in our hearts. I also pray that our country, now under new leadership, will grow in the practice of mercy, in respect for life, and governs in a way that secures "liberty and justice for all."

At the end of the week the Synod begins. Did you notice the picture of one of our parishioners, Grace Bostic, on the front page of the Michigan Catholic last week? She is our representative to the Synod. Please pray for her and for all the other members of the Synod that their work will bear fruit in the years to come.

]]>Mon, 28 Nov 2016 02:33:08 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-12-13-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-12-13-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 5-6, 2016You may notice that our Sunday readings leading up to November 20th have taken on a different tone. The Church asks us to reflect more deeply upon the time that is allotted to each of us, especially in regard to the end times and the final judgment.

But even as nature enters into its winter rest, and we enjoy the extra hour of sleep as we enter into daylight savings time, the Spirit of God continues to stir our spirits. This Sunday the Spirit's stirrings are seen in the three people who are coming before us to begin a time of preparation as candidates and catechumens. As they enter more deeply into the truths of our faith, we are invited to walk with them. Their journey prompts us to give thanks for the gift of faith, and to pray that our faith deepens.

We will be hosting the annual interfaith Thanksgiving prayer service this year. It will be held on November 20th at 7:00 pm. Several Southfield congregations regularly join together to give thanks. Please come and join in this Thanksgiving. Choir members from these other congregations will be adding their voices to our choir to make a special sound of worship. Rev. Tim Larson from Peace Lutheran Church will speak at the service (and then he will host next year's service.)

The Archdiocesan Synod on Evangelization takes place from November 18-20th. All Catholics are asked to pray for the Spirit's guidance on the many people and the Archdioces has suggested this prayer:

"God our Father, you have called us to be witnesses to Jesus and have sent us on a mission to lead all people to encounter him. Send your Holy Spirit to enlighten our minds and enkindle our hearts, so that we may grow daily as your disciples. Empower us to face bravely the challenges of our time. Keep us close to you, together with Jesus your Son, Mary our Mother, and St. Anne our patroness, as we engage in Synod '16 to Unleash the Gospel. Transform us into a band of joyful missionary disciples, who will bring the message of Jesus' power and mercy to every person in Southeast Michigan. We ask this through Christ our Lord. AMEN."

]]>Mon, 28 Nov 2016 02:32:38 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-5-6-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-5-6-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 29-30, 2016The church calls us to celebrate the victory of grace in the lives of all the saints this Tuesday, the Feast of All Saints. In addition to the regular noon mass, we will have another mass at 7:00 pm as we do on all the holy days of obligation. Our ChristLife program will not meet that Tuesday evening, nor will it meet on the following Tuesday which is national election day. (The ChristLife retreat takes place next Saturday.)

November is dedicated to the memory of our beloved dead. A book will be placed near the paschal candle for you to write down the names of the dead for whom you wish us to pray. As we count down the final days of the year of mercy, prayers for the dead are especially meaningful. Prayers for the living and the dead have been considered one of the spiritual works of mercy.

The year of mercy will end on November 20th, the Feast of Christ the King. That evening our parish hosts the annual ecumenical thanksgiving prayer service. I hope you will be able to join us at 7:00 pm for this special gathering!

]]>Mon, 31 Oct 2016 04:02:53 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-29-30-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-29-30-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 22-23, 2016As the cold weather season approaches, we are hearing frequent reminders about getting a flu shot and becoming more careful about our personal health habits. The archdiocese also circulates a memo which addresses possible changes in how we celebrate mass during these times. You can find the guidelines in today's bulletin. I mention this because, if someone declines exchanging the sign of peace, he or she may be doing so out of health concerns.

At this time of the year, we also make available the sacrament of the anointing of the sick. Next weekend, at the 4:00 pm and 10:00 am masses, Fr. Jeremy and I will incorporate this sacrament into the mass. If you would like to receive the sacrament, I ask that you find a place near the central aisle. After the homily, we will proceed down the main aisle twice: once to lay our hands upon your head, and then again to anoint your forehead and the palms of your hands.

This is from the bishops' website, describing the effects of the sacrament: "When the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given, the hoped-for effect is that, if it be God's will, the person be physically healed of illness. But even if there is no physical healing, the primary effect of the Sacrament is a spiritual healing by which the sick person receives the Holy Spirit's gift of peace and courage to deal with the difficulties that accompany serious illness or the frailty of old age."

]]>Mon, 24 Oct 2016 04:31:18 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-22-23-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-22-23-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 15-16, 2016A heartfelt thanks goes out to all of you who were involved with the South Oakland Shelter this past week. There is so much done behind the scenes to make this week go smoothly. Again, a special thanks to Tim and Nancy Cahoon for shepherding this good deed along.

Not everyone was able to join the parish pilgrimage on August 3 to the Door of Mercy at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral. Those who were able to come had a moving experience and expressed a hope that more parishioners could have the same opportunity before the Holy Year ends on November 20th.

This is your chance! Fr. Jeremy will lead a group to the Cathedral on Friday, October 28th. The cars will leave the parish parking lot at 9:00 am. We hope to begin the actual pilgrimage at 9:30 am; the prayers will end no later than 11:00 am. The August pilgrimage concluded with a mass, but this time we will not be able to have the mass, although you will still be able to receive the Plenary Indulgence.

If you are interested in taking part in the pilgrimage, leave a message at the office or email Fr. Jeremy at frjeremyh@gmail.com Depending on the weather that day, dress warmly because the first part of the pilgrimage takes place outside.

]]>Mon, 24 Oct 2016 04:30:49 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-15-16-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-15-16-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 8-9, 2016Thanks to the many volunteers who will be involved with the South Oakland Shelter in the days ahead, especially to those for whom this is the first time. It takes a lot to step outside our familiar routines. I know that you will find yourselves enriched by this experience.

Next Saturday, October 15 at 3:00 pm the Knights of Columbus invite you to pray the rosary in honor of Our Lady of Fatima. In case of rain, we'll move inside. Come and bring members of your family with you.

From the Archdiocese, regard adult confirmations: "there will be a change in the Celebration of Adult Confirmation at the Cathedral this year. Usually the celebration takes place on the feast of Christ the King. However, because the Synod is taking place the same weekend, this year the celebration will take place November 6 at 11:00 a.m." I mention this because I occasionally encounter parishioners who have not yet been confirmed. Please contact me if you would like to avail yourself of the opportunity to receive this sacrament.

Finally, our small but devoted "Forty Days for Life" group continue to meet at Evergreen Road to pray. You are invited to come; we can use the parking lot north of the access road by Tapestry Banquet. Please park along the southern border of the lot.

]]>Mon, 10 Oct 2016 03:18:03 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-8-9-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-8-9-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 1-2, 2016Join us for prayer on Monday evening as we commemorate the death of St. Francis in a beautiful Transitus Service, a long-standing Franciscan tradition. The service is a simple retelling of the final hours of St. Francis, accompanied by music and reflective silence. We love to share this sacred moment with all those who are drawn to the life and spirit of St. Francis.

If you see Fr. Jeremy this Friday, wish him a happy birthday. How about coming that day to the noon mass and helping me sing "Happy Birthday" to him? We are truly blessed to have him on the parish staff. He is an example and inspiration to all of us.

Our opening session of ChristLife took place last Tuesday; we had a strong response to the second season, with thirty people signing up. Thanks to the Discipleship Commission for organizing the program. The same commission also brought us another Time and Talent weekend. It is not too late to turn in your form if you haven't completed it yet. All knew volunteers will be contacted as soon as we have collated the forms.

Thanks to all who have signed up for our week of hosting the South Oakland Shelter. There may be some further openings when the sign-up sheets come back from Queen of Martryrs parish.

]]>Tue, 04 Oct 2016 03:03:37 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-1-2-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-1-2-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSeptember 24-25, 2016The second season of ChristLife begins this Tuesday evening. I hope you've prayerfully considered joining us for the first seven sessions, Discovering Christ. Although the material covered is very basic, you'll find yourself discovering Christ anew as the weeks proceed. Thanks for all who have signed up so far. You can still sign up at the information desk in the gathering room.

October is just around the corner, and the first weekend will be a busy one, with more to come after that. Next Saturday begins with a Day of Mercy prayer service at 8:30 am in the church. The day of mercy has been set aside for parishes to engage in any one of the corporal or spiritual works of mercy. Several nearby parishes are invited to our prayer service before the works of mercy begin.

Later that same morning we will have our annual pet blessing in the prayer garden at 11:00 am. I enjoy meeting the pets of the parish and their owners. Sometimes we have people who don't belong to our parish but like the idea of some extra help for their pets! All are welcome.

Few people need to be reminded that, when the pets are blessed, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi is not far away. On Monday night, October 3, the eve of the feast day, we are hosting the Transitus service at 7:00 pm which commemorates the passing of St. Francis into eternal life. It is a beautiful and meaningful ceremony and I hope you can all come to us. There will be refreshments afterwards. Many of the Detroit area Franciscans, men and women, come together for this service.

]]>Tue, 27 Sep 2016 04:32:53 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-24-25-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-24-25-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSeptember 17-18, 2016I'll begin where I left off last Sunday, which was an error on my part. I ended my message with the wrong date for the Mass for the Unborn will be on Friday, September 30th, not the 27th as I had mistakenly said. This Friday evening mass will lead us into Respect Life Weekend, always the first weekend of October. This year's theme, taking a cue from the Jubilee Year, is "Moved By Mercy."

Coinciding with the national program of the US Bishops is our local participation in the 40 Days for Life Campaign. From September 28th to November 6, pro-life supporters will be engaged in fasting, prayer, community outreach and witness. Last year a small group gathered at a nearby abortion clinic for one hour after our noon mass. We are planning to do something similar this year. More on that next week. In the meantime, be thinking about ways you can be renewed in witnessing for life.

Our annual Time and Talent celebration is a week away. You noticed in last week's bulletin our extensive list of ways you can strengthen our parish and your own personal life of faith. I ask that you not be in a hurry to leave church next weekend, but spend a few minutes walking among the various displays in our parish hall. Listen for the little inward tug that may be God's way of telling you that it is time to commit to one (or more) of these groups and activities.

Finally, thank you for your support of the priests' retirement fund.

]]>Mon, 19 Sep 2016 03:55:01 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-17-18-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-17-18-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSeptember 10-11, 2016We are in full swing with sign-ups for our ChristLife program which will begin soon on September 27th. We pushed the program hard last year and had more participants than we expected. Everyone found the faith-sharing format easy to get involved with. We hope to continue last year's success. You'll be receiving an invitation to attend Christlife as you leave today, from one a parishioner who has gone through the program last year.

Our RCIA is just now beginning. It is not to late to join our group. They meet after the 10:00 am Sunday mass. I encourage you to invite a friend or family member who has expressed interest in becoming a disciple of Jesus in the Catholic Church. If you would like to sponsor one of the catechumen's, please let me know soon.

Looking ahead:Every year we celebrate the passing of St. Francis, called the "Transitus" on Oct 3. It is our turn to host this prayer service for Franciscans in the Detroit area. You are all invited to pray with us and to enjoy some fellowship afterwards with others to who love and follow St. Francis. (This would be a good opportunity to continue our celebration of the Franciscan heritage which we experienced during our August parish mission.)

Our yearly Respect Life mass, which is usually held on the first Monday of October will be moved to the last Friday of September, the 30th at 7:00 pm, right before Respect Life Sunday.

]]>Mon, 12 Sep 2016 02:18:05 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-10-11-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-10-11-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSeptember 3-4, 2016Where did the summer go? I'm sure we are all asking that question this weekend as we head into the Labor Day holiday. Please join us for our Monday Labor Day mass at 9:00 am. As school doors open, our own parish focus begins to shift towards the various educational opportunities we offer to you.

You had to notice on the cover of last week's bulletin our two bible study programs which begin in the middle of September. Both presenters will help you appreciate our sacred scriptures.

On September 18th is Catechetical Sunday. Our religious education instructors will be at the 10:00 am mass to be recognized and blessed in preparation for their work with our young people. Be sure to sign up your children at the information desk in the gathering area.

Finally, at the end of September, Tuesday the 27th we begin our second season of the ChristLife Program. It will be held on most Tuesday evenings, through October and into November. Each session will begin with supper in our social hall, followed by a video presentation. After a short break, table groups will engage in a guided discussion of the video. We always begin and end in prayer.

This Friday's noon mass, when we celebrate the memorial of St. Peter Claver, we will add special prayers in observance of the Day of Prayer for Peace in Our Communities. The U.S. bishops have set this day aside that Catholic communities might unite in prayer. Please make a special effort to join us, or at least pause at noon to pray for peace in our cities. The first petition that we will prayer says it all: "For an end to the violence perpetrated by harsh words, deadly weapons, or cold indifference. May our homes, our nation, and countries around the world become havens of peace, let us pray to the Lord."

]]>Fri, 09 Sep 2016 04:55:26 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-3-4-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-3-4-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 27-28, 2016As children are preparing to return to school in the coming days, we are gearing up for the coming season of Religious Education for the children of the parish. If you have young children in elementary or middle school, please have them registered soon. We consider the years in between first communion and confirmation as equally important times for our children to grow in their faith. As always, we welcome anyone who would like to volunteer in our religious education programs. Please see Diane Klucka or one of the friars here.

I would like you to consider joining our group of Eucharistic Ministers. Deacon Tom always took one of the positions, and now we need some people to step in to take his place. Please let us know if you are willing to be trained and assigned at the mass you usually attend. We can always benefit from more lectors and ushers too!

Last June we hosted Fr. Thomas Carroll from the Piarist Fathers for our annual mission appeal. He recently wrote a nice thank-you note for the collection that followed. You were very generous in responding to his appeal: $4,070.12 in support of the Church's mission efforts.

The bishops of the USA are calling for a special Day of Prayer for Peace in Our Communities on Sept 9, which is the feast of St. Peter Claver. This day of prayer is in response to the racially motivated violence impacting many of our local communities. Our parish will be making plans to recognize this day. The bishops added: "Please join us as we pray for racial justice, peace and healing. As a U.S. Catholic community, may our unified prayers this day strengthen our efforts to advance race relations, restorative justice, mental health, economic opportunity and pervasive gun violence."

Fr. Jeremy will be taking some well-earned vacation time this week. Welcome back, Bro. Phil from your time away with your family.

]]>Wed, 31 Aug 2016 04:37:30 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-27-28-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-27-28-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 20-21, 2016Now that all the activities around our parish "week of mercy" are finished (the mission, the visit to the Holy Door, the feast of Transfiguration and parish picnic) it would be natural to think that our participation in the Holy Year is finished. Far from it! I hope we can savor every remaining day of the Holy Year, all the way to November 20 (ninety two days if I counted them correctly).

Here are some ideas to keep the Holy Year of mercy alive in our hearts:

* Promote family reconciliation by seeking out one family member who needs a word of mercy from you * A personal visit to the Holy Door of mercy at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral * Celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation if you have been away from it for awhile * Carry out one of the corporal or spiritual works of mercy (pick up the holy card at the information desk in the gathering room after mass) * Volunteer for a Monday or Wednesday morning at our Franciscan Outreach to help distribute food * Visit our bell tower shrine and say the Chaplet of Divine Mercy * Take time in prayer to contemplate the good qualities of someone who is difficult for you. Do the same for each member of your family * Make a list of your “enemies.” Then, every day, say a prayer for them * Send me some of your own ideas so that I can include them in my column!

The Holy Year's was meant to influence the parishes of the world, but just as important, it must have an impact on each disciple. These final three months are all we have left of this gift to the Church.

]]>Mon, 22 Aug 2016 04:53:09 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-20-21-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-20-21-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 13-14, 2016We had a great parish picnic last Sunday. It was a fitting way to end our week of mercy. Thanks to all our volunteers, especially the Mens Club and the K of C for their help in setting up and cleaning up. Everyone there enjoyed the free concert from the Motor City Brass Band too. If you missed the performance, you will have another chance to hear them play in our hall next winter. Assumption on a holy day this year.

The high point of our week of mercy was the Tuesday evening celebration of St. Mary of the Angels. The next day, I found an article about Pope Francis' own celebration of the feast in the basilica near Assisi. I wanted to share some of his words with you:

"Dear brothers and sisters, the pardon of which Saint Francis made himself a "channel" here at the Portiuncola continues to "bring forth heaven" even after eight centuries. In this Holy Year of Mercy, it becomes ever clearer that the path of forgiveness can truly renew the Church and the world. To offer today's world the witness of mercy is a task from which none of us can feel exempted. The world needs forgiveness; too many people are caught up in resentment and harbor hatred, because they are incapable of forgiving. They ruin their own lives and the lives of those around them rather than finding the joy of serenity and peace. Let us ask Saint Francis to intercede for us, so that we may always be humble signs of forgiveness and channels of mercy."

This Monday is the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary. Since it falls on a Monday this year, the obligation to celebrate it as a Holy Day is lifted. Our noon mass will honor this solemnity, but we will not have an extra mass that evening.

]]>Mon, 15 Aug 2016 04:46:52 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-13-14-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-13-14-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 6-7, 2016Happy Feast of the Transfiguration! We close our special parish week of mercy with the celebration of the patronal feast of our parish, followed by our parish picnic after the noon mass. I want to thank everyone who had a hand in making our parish mission a success, especially Carolyn, Julie, Joyce, Susan, and Paula, not to mention Frs. Page and Larry.

As the summer begins to wind down, my thoughts turn to two programs which begin in September. The first program, the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) will have its first meeting soon. Those who feel drawn to join the Catholic Church should sign up in the weeks ahead. If you know of someone in your family or circle of friends who has expressed any interest in becoming Catholic, urge them to contact the parish office or parish staff. We are eager to meet them and answer any questions they have about joining the RCIA.

Towards the end of September we will offer the first part of the ChristLife program again: Discovering Christ. We've set aside Tuesday evenings, from September 27th for the seven weeks of this program. Former participants are invited to come back and help. Anyone who would like to resume the 3nd or 3rd sessions will be welcomed back too when we start them. We have just begun to tap the potential of this program for our parish!

]]>Wed, 10 Aug 2016 03:36:25 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-6-7-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-6-7-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJuly 30-31, 2016On Sunday we begin our parish "week of mercy" with the opening session of our parish mission. I hope we have a full church this evening when Fr. Page and Fr. Larry begin the mission. By Tuesday evening you will have a deeper understanding of the way St. Francis practiced mercy and tried to make this gift available to as many as possible.

As I mentioned in my recent letter to you, we will hold the Tuesday evening mass behind the bell tower shrine, unless the weather is too hot, windy or rainy. In those cases, we will have the mass in church. There will be chairs set out in the lawn, but if you have a portable lawn chair, I encourage you to bring it.

On Wednesday, following the mission, we'll form a caravan at 8:00 am to Blessed Sacrament Cathedral to visit the Holy Door. Make sure that you let us know when you sign up if you need a ride. This time has been reserved just for our parish. Mass is scheduled as part of our visit.

And finally, to conclude our week of mercy, comes our annual parish picnic on the feast of the Transfiguration next Sunday after the noon mass. Have you signed up yet? Please do so after mass today, so that we can know how much food to prepare. Don't forget that the Motor City Brass Band will perform a special concert for us during the picnic. They are a fabulously talented band, and I know you will enjoy their music.

The Parish Mission of Mercy is only a week away--Sunday July 31 at 7:00 p.m. and the following two days. Come and bring a friend. Tuesday August 2 is the very special 800th anniversary of the Pope giving St. Francis the privilege of a Plenary Indulgence for those praying at St. Mary of the Angels, the Portiuncula. Don’t miss the special Mass here at 7:00.

You don’t need to sign up for the mission but we do ask you to sign up in the gathering room for our Parish Pilgrimage to the Holy Door at the cathedral on Wednesday, August 3. Also you need to sign up for the Parish Picnic. It will start after the noon Mass, Sunday, August 10. Paula Hillman needs to know how much food to order. The picnic will be our opportunity to thank Deacon Thomas Mohan for his generous service. The Motor City Brass Band will play for us.

The feast of Saints Anne and Joachim is Tuesday, July 26.St. Anne is the patroness of our Archdiocese. On Monday at 7:00 p.m. Archbishop Vigneron is celebrating the feast at the Cathedral. You’ll notice the painting of St. Anne on the wall after you enter the main door from Code St. Ask her blessings on the Archdiocese and all mothers and grandmothers!

Thanks to all those who this very Sunday are cooking and serving dinner at Crossroads and to all of you who made donations to buy the food.

Finally, thanks to all of you who have offered me your prayerful support! I’m grateful for all your prayers and will ask God to share them with many people who are sicker than I. Fr. Jeremy

Vacation Bible School is July 11-15. Cave Quest—Following Jesus the Light of the World is a great opportunity for your children or grandchildren to learn more about Jesus. Take a moment to think of other children who would profit from this blessing--a neighbor’s children, a cousin’s, a co-worker’s. Check with their parents and invite them. Young people can volunteer to help.

The weekend of June 26 our youth group will be raising funds for their mission trip in July.

Your inspiring and moving stories of mercy have been running in the bulletin since the start of the Year of Mercy in December, 2015. Thanks to all of you who have shared how you experienced God’s mercy and the angels of mercy God sent into your lives. Reviewing your life and reflecting on God’s mercy to you is a good prayer. The Blessed Mother shares in her Magnificat—“the almighty has done great things for me.” E-mail your stories to frjeremyh@gmail.com or drop them off at the office. Share your blessings!

Thanks for your welcome to Fr. Tom Carroll and your contributions to his school in Eastern Kentucky. Blessings on all those who participated in the Blood Drive sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. You are giving people!

]]>Wed, 27 Jul 2016 04:47:54 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-16-17-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-16-17-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJuly 9-10, 2016I wanted to share with you a health issue that has become part of Fr. Jeremy's life recently. He recently had a growth removed from his neck. The procedure went well, and his doctors ran a number of tests to follow up on the results. Fr. Jeremy and I met with his doctor who told us that he had a non-Hodgkins lymphoma which needed to be treated right away.

The diagnosis was a surprise to us because Fr. Jeremy has none of the symptoms often associated with type of cancer. He has kept himself in excellent health also. All the same, in late June he began a monthly session of chemotherapy at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak. Right now he feels very good and wants to continue working as usual. I wanted you to know about his condition and to keep him in your prayers. As time goes on, I will keep you informed if there are any changes to report. We are both impressed with the level of care that he has received.

This week we hold our annual children's vacation bible school. Thanks to all our volunteers who make this a fun and educational week for our children. The participants will join with us at the Friday noon mass as they have done in other years. They will sing some of the songs they have learned at the bible school.

]]>Wed, 27 Jul 2016 04:47:21 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-9-10-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-9-10-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJuly 2-3, 2016I mentioned at the masses last weekend that the first week of August will be a very special one for our parish. I mentioned in particular that we would host a special Holy Year mission from July 31 to August 2. Later it occurred to me that some may have wondered just what a parish mission is, especially since last weekend our youth group collected money for its mission trip to West Virginia.

Parish missions are known as times when a visiting preacher (or missionary) comes to conduct a time of renewal. We in the parish are on the receiving end of someone else's missionary work. We will be especially blessed to have two of Pope Francis' missionaries of mercy to lead us in renewal: Fr. Larry Zurek and Fr. Page Polk. The two evening sessions and the final evening mass begin at 7:00 pm.

An update on my last Sunday announcement: our trip to Blessed Sacrament Cathedral: I mentioned last week that we had Saturday reservations. As it turns out, the times we wanted were already taken by other groups. Our new time is Wednesday morning, August 3rd. You will soon see sign-up forms in the gathering area. We plan to share rides to the Cathedral that morning.

Next week Fr. Joe Hund, OFM comes to stay with us while vacationing with his family in the Detroit area. You'll see him at the masses, sometimes helping us out while I am away.

]]>Thu, 30 Jun 2016 03:26:30 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-2-3-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-2-3-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 25-26, 2016A couple weeks ago I mentioned in my column our parish mission in early August. We are also planning another event to celebrate the Holy Year of Mercy. Save the date for Wednesday morning, August 3rd. We have reserved a time to visit the Holy Door at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral that morning. In the weeks ahead we'll be organizing drivers to share rides. This event is more than walking through a special door. We will make every effort to help you have a prayerful experience. More to come in the weeks ahead!

Thanks to all of you who have made a pledge for the CSA. As of June 13 we are at 73% of our goal of $49,958 with pledges amounting to $36,236. The potential to reach or even surpass our goal is certainly there. Slightly less than 1/3 of the parish pledged so far. Thank you for praying over your response to the needs of the Archdiocese.

]]>Mon, 27 Jun 2016 08:05:18 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-25-26-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-25-26-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 18-19, 2016 Vacation Bible School is July 11-15. Cave Quest—Following Jesus the Light of the World is a great opportunity for your children or grandchildren to learn more about Jesus Take a moment to think of other children who would profit from this blessing --a neighbor's children, a cousin's, a co worker's Check with their parents and invite them. Young people can volunteer to help.

The weekend of June 26 our youth group will be raising funds for their mission trip in July.

Your inspiring and moving stories of mercy have been running in the bulletin since the start of the Year of Mercy in December, 2015. Thanks to all of you who have shared how you experienced God's mercy and the angels of mercy God sent into your lives. Reviewing your life and reflecting on God's mercy to you is a good prayer. The Blessed Mother shares in her Magnificat—"the almighty has done great things for me." E-mail your stories to frjeremvh@gmail.com or drop them off at the office. Share your blessings!

Thanks for your welcome to Fr. Tom Carroll and your contributions to his school in Eastern Kentucky. Blessings on all those who participated in the Blood Drive sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. You are giving people!

]]>Mon, 20 Jun 2016 03:40:18 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-18-19-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-18-19-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 11-12, 2016I am sorry to inform you that our deacon, Tom Mohan, will be leaving our parish in early August. His family has relocated to Grand Rapids, MI. For several weeks he has commuted from Grand Rapids to minister with me at the Sunday masses. We both knew that this arrangement would have to end soon. He asked that I let you know through my weekly column that his final weekend would be on our parish feast day, August 6th and 7th. He suggested that he combine his goodbye with our parish picnic on August 7th.

Deacon Tom has been great to work with. He has always been ready and willing to help in whatever way possible. Deacon Tom will continue to be helping with the Sunday masses through the end of July. Be sure to wish him well when you see him before or after masses in the coming weeks.

Please mark your calendar for our three-day parish mission - July 31 to August 2nd. Fr. Larry Zurek, OFM, former pastor and now a Missionary of Mercy who was commissioned by Pope Francis for the Holy Year, will conduct the three evenings of the mission along with Fr. Page Polk, OFM. The mission will begin at 7:00 pm on Sunday evening and end on Tuesday evening with a special mass. Tuesday, August 2nd, is the Franciscan feast of the Portiuncula Indulgence. This indulgence is not widely known, and we hope that our parish mission will help you love the feast as much as we Franciscans love it.

The rose garden has been replanted with seventeen new roses, dontated by parishioners to remember loved ones. They are already blooming! Soon we will have a marker at each rose to acknowledge our donors and the people they wish to remember.

]]>Mon, 20 Jun 2016 03:38:21 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-11-12-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-11-12-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 4-5, 2016Fr. Jeremy will be away this week, attending a fraternal gathering of the southwest Franciscans in Albuquerque. The meeting will be very similar to the one that we just finished last week, but for another province of Franciscans. When he comes back, it will be my turn to travel: first to a meeting of friars from all parts of the USA to explore a proposed merger of provinces, and then to celebrate my sister's 40th wedding anniversary in Florida.

This weekend we welcome Bishop Walter Hurley to the 10:00 am confirmation mass. I want to thank those who helped prepare our four young people for this important sacrament, especially John Houle who was their primary catechist. As I have said before, their formation as young disciples (and ours as older ones) never ends. We can best help them grow as followers of Jesus by consciously and commitedly being good disciples ourselves!

]]>Mon, 20 Jun 2016 03:37:40 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-4-5-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-4-5-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 28-29, 2016Last Wednesday evening, at our assembly this past week, we celebrated the anniversaries of numerous Franciscans, the 25th, 50th and beyond milestones of profession and ordination. I wanted to share with you that Fr. Jeremy was one of our jubilarians. He celebrated 65 years as a Franciscan, together with several classmates. Our parish is truly blessed to have a friar like Fr. Jeremy who combines the wisdom of years with a willingness to continue working in the vineyard.

Parish confirmations are just two weeks away on June 5th. Bishop Walter Hurley will be conferring the sacrament on four of our young people. Towards the end of the preparation program I interview each of the candidates. I was impressed by how much they are looking forward to being fully initiated into our faith. Mary, Leah, Tochi and Laura will appreciate your prayers for them as June 5th comes closer.

With Monday being Memorial Day, our noon mass will be moved to 9:00am.

]]>Fri, 03 Jun 2016 05:26:15 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-28-29-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-28-29-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 21-22, 2016My message this week will be very short. The friars will be gone all week to an assembly in southwestern Indiana, located at St. Meinrad Archabbey. We have quite a few pressing topics to address, and the days will be filled. Keep us in your prayers. Many thanks to the PIME Fathers who will be covering masses and confessions while we are gone.

I want to thank everyone involved in the Taste of Transfiguration meal last Saturday. Everyone enjoyed the many dishes from many countries, as well as the sense of community that a good meal always brings about. Communion with the Lord, followed by a communion of many cultures. Who could ask for more?

And speaking of meals, the parish is happy to help celebrate some wedding anniversaries this Sunday: the Sarpy's, Sokalski's and the Pietrowski's. You've lived out the ideals that Pope Francis expressed in Amoris Laetitia. Thanks for the example of your faithful love.

]]>Fri, 03 Jun 2016 05:25:19 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-21-22-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-21-22-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 14-15, 2016If you haven't signed up for Sunday afternoon's listening session, please consider doing so after this mass. Every voice counts at this stage of the Synod preparation. Here are the questions that you'll be asked to give a response to:

* What is an encounter with Jesus? * What is Evangelization, anyway? * How do you grow daily as a disciple? * How do you witness Christ’s mercy?

These questions are very open-ended. You may have much to say about one and little to say on the others, but all the same, each person's experience deserves to be heard.

Our Knights of Columbus Council is hosting an information night this Wednesday evening at 7 pm in the parish hall. Men, you owe it to yourself to check this group out. Our council is one among many in the Detroit area. It has many dedicated men who are growing in their commitment to the church and who do generous work for our parish, including lending a hand to our recent Rebuilt Oakland County project.

Finally, next Sunday, May 22nd I invite the parents of our religious education students to a special meeting at 11:00 am. I would like your input on how we can improve our parish faith formation program. You will be receiving a letter from me with more details. We will hold the meeting in the Duns Scotus room next to the parish hall.

]]>Fri, 03 Jun 2016 05:24:29 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-14-15-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-14-15-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 7-8, 2016I've mentioned in past columns the November Synod which the Archdiocese is preparing to convene in November. You might recall that Evangelization is the theme of the Synod. We are hosting our parish listening session next Sunday. I encourage you to participate in this event, which begins at 2:00 pm in the parish hall and will end at 5:00 pm, or sooner if we finish our work. The task is not complicated. You will be asked to respond to a number of questions having to do with evangelization, following these main areas: Encounter, Grow, and Witness.

You do not need to be an expert in theology to be a valuable contributor to this process. I Know that you will enjoy the session and, along the way, get to know some of your fellow parishioners better. I have seen that these conversational formats bring a real sense of liveliness to our faith. I hope to see you there!

You should have received your annual CSA (Catholic Services Appeal) letter from me by now. Once a year we are asked to support much of the work of the Archiocese. I looked up a list of all the ministries, and it is really too long to include. You can find it through this link: http://www.aod.org/being-catholic/ways-to-give/catholic-services-appeal/your-csa-gifts-at-work/ Much of the services include vocation and priestly training needs, both vital for the life of any diocese. Please be as generous as you can.

]]>Tue, 10 May 2016 04:16:26 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-7-8-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-7-8-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 30-May 1, 2016May promises to be one of our really busy months here at Transfiguration Parish. I want to give an overview of all the events currently in our parish calendar. Please take some time to read through this lengthy article.

The celebration of first communions will add something special to our 10:00 am mass today. We who have received this sacraments many many times over the years will also recommit ourselves to model our personal faith for our children. On a related note, on May 22 I ask that the parents of our young people in religious education meet with Ms Klucka and myself to evaluate our program. We want to get your input on improving our classes. We will meet right after the 10:00am mass on that day.

Mothers Day and our annual brunch for our mothers will be held on May 8 from 9 am until noon.

Pentecost, on May 14-15, will be made special in a couple different ways, one familiar, the other not so familiar. We will host the 6th Annual Taste of Transfiguration after the Saturday evening mass. Dishes from many different countries and peoples will be prepared for your enjoyment. Make sure you sign up. During all the masses of Pentecost, at least one of the readings will be proclaimed in a language other than English. Pentecost gives us an opportunity to celebrate the many cultures that have welcomed our Catholic faith!

Pentecost is also our day to let the Holy Spirit select our parish lay leaders for the Pastoral Council and Commissions. This special event will take place at the 10:00 am mass. Please be praying for those who have allowed their names to be discerned for these positions.

On Sunday afternoon, May 15, I am asking that you make some time for a special listening session that Archbishop Vigneron wants all parishes to hold. This session is meant to provide the November Synod on Evangelization with your views and concerns regarding this topic. It will begin at 2pm in the parish hall and last until 5pm. Thanks to Laura Dutton for facilitating this session.

The week from May 22 to May 27 is scheduled for a Franciscan assembly of the province, to take place in St. Meinrad, IN. All three of us friars will be gone for those days. The PIME Fathers will be covering Mass and confessions while we are away. This assembly is held every three years. Among other things, we will be discussing the future of all seven Franciscan provinces in the USA. It is very likely that a merger of our provinces will take place in the coming years.

]]>Fri, 06 May 2016 09:24:12 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-30-may-1-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-30-may-1-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 23-24, 2016Mary Strong, our parish secretary, will be retiring at the end of April. This Sunday, after the 10:00 am mass, we are thanking her for her years of service to the parish with a brunch and reception. It is a small token of gratitude for faithfully serving our parish for so many years. No matter how busy our front office may be, Mary has always calmly and competently kept everything organized and on time.

During the final days of April, Mary will be working with our new parish secretary, Amy Burgin. If all goes as we have planned it, Amy will take over as parish secretary at the beginning of May. Welcome, Amy!

Next weekend we celebrate our parish first communions. During this week, please keep in your prayers our young children who are taking this important step in their Catholic journey of faith. Thanks so much to those who are in charge of preparing our children for this sacrament.

]]>Mon, 25 Apr 2016 03:44:34 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-23-24-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-23-24-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 16-17, 2016Last week Pope Francis released the document, The Joy of Love, based on the work of last October's Synod on the Family. I was able to download a copy of it soon after and have begun to read the 250+ page report. Even after going through just a few pages, it was very obvious that this is not a document to rush through. The Synod's work covers much ground in addressing the complex world of the family in today's world. You will no doubt be hearing much commentary about this document. I encourage you to get a copy soon and begin to read it. I hope to provide some way for our parish to benefit from the Synod's work. Stay tuned.

From Monday to Wednesday of this coming week, I will be participating in a special event called Amazing Parish. The Archdiocese has called all pastors to attend, along with four others from each parish to participate in a leadership development workshop. Attending with me will be our business manager, Sharon Myers, our pastoral council chair, Julie Garmo, as well as Tom Bassett and Tom Orosz. Fr. Jeremy will be covering for me during the three days that I am gone.

]]>Mon, 18 Apr 2016 03:18:32 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-16-17-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-16-17-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 9-10, 2016Next Sunday, April 17 is the World Day of Prayer for vocations. I invite you to join me in praying, not so much for vocations, because they are already present in peoples' lives, but for a spirit of generous response to these vocations. God's call for special service in the church has never harmonized well with the spirit of the world.

Especially in our day, young people receive messages, sometimes not very subtle, that a life given to serve God is a thing of the past. Pray that those whom God is calling may have a willingness to at least try and explore the possibilities. Our Sunday masses will be focused on praying for vocations, but may I ask you this week to pray personally for vocations, and if you know someone who is seeking how to serve God in this way, please pray for him or her. ]]>Mon, 11 Apr 2016 03:47:06 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-9-10-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-9-10-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 2-3, 2016Celebrating the Easter liturgies was as uplifting for myself, Fr. Jeremy and Deacon Tom, as it always is. In fact, the entire Holy Week brings us back to the center of our faith and what it means to be a Catholic Christian. I hope that you too have rediscovered your spiritual center and renewed to live out the baptismal vows, renewed by the Easter feast. I want to thank Mike Dillon and Diane Klucka for their dedicated work in our RCIA program. The program never really ends; all through the year, we are always seeking to help people to answer the call of the Holy Spirit. Those who were baptized and confirmed last Saturday night must continue their journey with your help. They look to parish members for guidance, inspiration and encouragement.

At our March pastoral council we established an Evangelization Committee. The new Archdiocesan governance guidelines call each parish to set up such a group. The purpose of the committee is to energize every group in the parish, starting with the pastoral council, for the work of evangelization. We envision this group to begin its work by reviewing the major statements of the church and archdiocese on evangelization. I hope that some of you will be interested in promoting the spread of the gospel, especially past participants in ChristLife.

]]>Tue, 05 Apr 2016 04:18:12 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-2-3-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-2-3-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 26-27I've been praying that all of you will be touched by the graces of our Easter celebration. During the Saturday evening Easter vigil, this grace entered fully into two newly baptized and confirmed Catholics, Keith Leider and Chester Jeanes. Two others, already baptized, confessed their faith as Catholics at the vigil as well: Jackie Mills and Marilyn Wallace (who was received into the church along with her daughter-in-law in Chicago).

They now enter into a phase of mystagogia, the deepening appreciation of the truths they have encountered during the months leading up to their initiation. I mention this because our new members will continue to look to us for ongoing help to reinforce the teachings they have received. I hope that you will take on the responsibilities of older brothers and sisters towards those newly included in our community.

Next Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday. Because we are in the special Holy Year of Mercy, I wanted to highlight even more this special celebration that St. Pope John Paul II included in our year of worship. There is an insert in today's bulletin which gives some background to the feast. Confession within eight days (note our regular Tuesday morning and Saturday afternoon confession times) will opens the door to a plenary (unqualified and absolute) indulgence. We will also be focusing our homilies on the merciful heart of Jesus.

]]>Mon, 28 Mar 2016 03:39:12 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-26-27
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-26-27Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 19-20, 2016We have arrived at Holy Week. Each day of this week leads us to the ultimate sacrifice of love that Jesus makes on the cross. The Sacred Triduum (Thursday to Saturday night) shakes us out of our normal rhythm so that we can enter more fully into this mystery. Our daily noon mass ends on Wednesday. I hope we can fill the church on Thursday evening at 7:00pm to commemorate the Last Supper, on Friday at 1 to 2:30 pm, and the Holy Saturday Easter Vigil at 8:30 pm.

Last weekend we listened to the message from Archbishop Vigneron about unleashing the gospel. He made mention of the November Synod in his comment. The Archbishop made us aware of a meeting that each parish will hold to gather information to help the work of the Synod. Our parish meeting will be held on Sunday afternoon, May 15th at 2:00pm in the parish hall. I highly encourage you to attend. Thanks to Laura Dutton who attended the facilitator training session. She will run the meeting. Suzanne Grden (now a highly-trained notetaker) will make sure that your contributions are recorded for the good of the Synod.

Archbishop Vigneron also urged Catholics to attend one of the area Come Encounter Christ parish missions. St. Regis is hosting our last local opportunity beginning this Sunday evening at 7:00 pm.

]]>Mon, 28 Mar 2016 03:38:28 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-19-20-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-19-20-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 12-13, 2016It is time to get ready for Holy Week and Easter. Where did the weeks of Lent go? Ash Wednesday doesn't seem that long ago! I hope you have been keeping up with Rediscover Christ and using the daily meditations to enrich your Lenten journey. Next Sunday is Palm Sunday. Our practice is to begin in the gathering area to hear the gospel story of the Palm Sunday procession, to bless the palms and then as a community to make our way into church.

Another journey that some are making is called 40 Days for Life. You've seen the signs near the church entrances. Our parish will be participating in an hour-long prayer vigil at Northland Family Planning this coming Wednesday, March 16th, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm. Please consider joining us. The church will be kept open for those who wish to participate by prayer as well. You can find more information on 40 Days for Life activities at https://40daysforlife.com/local-campaigns/southfield/

I will be including in next week's bulletin a date and time for a parish-wide listening session which is intended to help the Archdiocese prepare for the November Synod. I urge you to come and be part of this session.

]]>Mon, 14 Mar 2016 03:56:43 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-12-13-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-12-13-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 6-7, 2016One of our Year of Mercy observances this spring will be to offer the full devotions associated with Divine Mercy Sunday, the first Sunday following Easter. St. Pope John Paul II added this feast to the liturgical calendar in 2000, drawing from the scripture readings already in place the theme of God's forgiveness. Our bell tower shrine, which is dedicated to Divine Mercy, has become a popular place for people to spend time in prayer.

Next Sunday at 1:00 pm Jim Miller, an apostle of Divine Mercy will offer an afternoon of teaching on this feast and the devotions connected to it. Please check the flyer in today's bulletin for more details about the program. He will give the background for this special feast and talk about the mystic who influenced St. Pope John Paul to add it to the calendar.

Pope Francis in his letter on the Year of Mercy makes mention of this mystic too. "Our prayer also extends to the saints and blessed ones who made divine mercy their mission in life. I think especially of the great apostle of mercy, Saint Faustina Kowalska. May she, who was called to enter the depths of divine mercy, intercede for us and obtain for us the grace of living and walking always according to the mercy of God and with an unwavering trust in his love." [par. 24]

The weeks of Lent are passing quickly. Come to our Lenten Friday fish fry. You will enjoy good fellowship as well as tasty baked and fried fish. The doors open at 5:00 pm, and I encourage you to stay and pray the Stations of the Cross at 7:00 pm.

The Motor City Brass Band will be offering a free performance on Monday of this week at 7:00 pm in our hall. The Motor City Youth Band, conducted by our own Bona Opatich, will also be performing.Both groups came last year and provided truly wonderful entertainment.

]]>Mon, 14 Mar 2016 03:56:10 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-6-7-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-6-7-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 27-28, 2016I'm sure that you've heard about the November Synod that is being organized by the Archdiocese. I've mentioned it a couple times in this column. Every parish has been asked to arrange for a special listening session to garner ideas and concerns about the synod topic: evangelization. I am still working out a time for this meeting, likely to be scheduled in the early spring. Laura Dutton has agreed to facilitate the meeting, and Suzanne Grden, who does such a fine job on the pastoral council minutes, will be taking notes to send back to AOD. Both have attended a training session for their roles.

Have you begun your spring cleaning yet? Don't forget that we have a place to bring your unused clothing right here on our parish property. The St. Vincent de Paul Society maintains a drop-off bin on the large church parking lot. Clothing donations make their way to the thrift stores run by the Society.

Our Lenten reconciliation service will take place on Wednesday, March 9th at 7:00 pm. Several other priests and others from nearby parishes will also be joining us. In his Apostolic Letter, Pope Francis has this to say about the sacrament of reconciliation: "So many people, including young people, are returning to the Sacrament of Reconciliation; through this experience they are rediscovering a path back to the Lord, living a moment of intense prayer and finding meaning in their lives. Let us place the Sacrament of Reconciliation at the center once more in such a way that it will enable people to touch the grandeur of God’s mercy with their own hands. For every penitent, it will be a source of true interior peace."

]]>Mon, 29 Feb 2016 02:48:38 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-27-28-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-27-28-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 20-21, 2016We recently heard that former pastor, Fr. Larry Zurek, has been named by Pope Francis as a Missionary of Mercy during this special Holy Year. He will be one of 100 priests sent to the United States to help spread the message of mercy. These Missionaries, all 800 of whom were given their mandate by the Pope on Ash Wednesday, are being sent out into the world to be:

- a living sign of the Father’s welcome to all those in search of his forgiveness;- facilitators for all, with no one excluded, of a truly human encounter, a source of liberation, rich with responsibility for overcoming obstacles and taking up the new life of Baptism again;- guided by the words, “For God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy upon all;- inspiring preachers of Mercy;- heralds of the joy of forgiveness;- welcoming, loving, and compassionate Confessors, who are most especially attentive to the difficult situations of each person.

The Missionaries will be invited to give missions or facilitate specific initiatives organized for the Jubilee, with a particular attention given to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The Holy Father will grant these Missionaries the authority to pardon even those sins reserved to the Holy See. Another friar from our community, Fr. Page Polk, was also designated as one of these missionaries. I have invited Fr. Larry to come back to our parish and to be part of an event (yet to be planned) centered around the Year of Mercy.

Our Lady of Sorrows Parish will host a Come Encounter Christ parish mission this Sunday evening until Tuesday evening. The three evening sessions will begin at 7:00 pm. There will be other opportunities to attend this mission at St. Hugo and St. Regis in March.

]]>Mon, 22 Feb 2016 02:54:33 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-20-21-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-20-21-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 16-17, 2016The next question on our November in-pew survey that I'd like to report on concerned what I called the "country of origin." I intended this question to help us better understand the unique blend of cultures that make up our parish. I found out something different instead.

The phrase "country of origin" carried different meanings for those who answered this question. I intended the phrase to mean the country from which our family came from. Almost 2/3 of respondents named the United States as the country of origin and about 50% considered themselves first or second generation in this country. I concluded that our parishioners take great pride in identifying themselves as loyal to the USA. That discovery in itself makes the whole survey a worthwhile activity.

The top 3 "countries of origin":USA - 193Nigeria - 24Philppines - 17

Next Sunday evening Our Lady of Sorrows will host the three evening mission: Come Encounter Christ. We are being urged by the Archdiocese to attend one of these missions. The sessions begin at 7:00 pm and last to 8:30pm. On March 20-22, St. Regis will host the same mission.

]]>Mon, 15 Feb 2016 02:37:20 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-16-17-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-16-17-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 6-7, 2016Did you notice the new Information Desk in the gathering space last weekend? A generous parishioner created it for the parish. Now all we need is one or two parishioners at each of our weekend masses to assist those with questions and distribute information about parish activities. I invite the various groups of the parish, especially those with an event or project coming up, to take turns making this beautiful piece of furniture a helpful fixture of our weekend liturgies. I see the desk as another way of showing our welcome to those who attend our masses.

Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent. We will have another mass at 7pm for those who cannot come to the noon mass. One of my favorite pieces of advice is to begin anything by keeping the end result in mind. Applied to Lent: where do I want to be in my spiritual life on Easter Sunday? Try to imagine a different you, transformed by 40 days of prayer, fasting and good works. Once you have a picture of yourself on Easter Sunday, count backwards to Ash Wednesday and decide how you will make your way to your goal.

Our parish survey: We inquired about the number of school aged children that belong to our parish. According to our response (and this isn't a tally of our official parish records) we have:

Next week I'll have a few comments on the question related to the country of origin.

]]>Mon, 15 Feb 2016 02:36:19 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-6-7-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-6-7-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 30-31, 2016For the next few weeks, you'll be reading a summary of the survey we conducted last November. The first three questions were the same as the previous year's survey, and for today, I'll limit my remarks to them. If you recall that weekend, we had snow that Saturday, and the attendance at the evening mass was lower than usual. The total surveys turned in this year was 343, compared to 482 turned in last year.

The first questions asked general questions about the congregation attending mass that particular weekend.

In general, not much has changed since last year in the areas of these three questions. Our parish planning has taken into account the fact that most of those who attend church are older, but still active and involved. Next week's questions will inquire about the ages of our young people and the interests of those 65 and older.

]]>Mon, 01 Feb 2016 03:16:59 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-30-31-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-30-31-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 23-24, 2016For the last year, Catholics have observed a Year of Consecrated Life to draw attention to the special vocation of living one's life in community according to the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. The year concludes on February 2nd. I thought that I would mention this one more time since many consecrated men and women have worked in the ministries of this parish (and the other parishes before the merger). Bro Phil and Fr. Jeremy attended a special mass at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral last Sunday which highlighted the presence and contributions of all the communities of consecrated life in the Archdiocese.

These are the words of the official prayer; I think it captures the spirit of consecrated life and is worthwhile to keep before us:

"O God, throughout the ages you have called women and men to pursue lives of perfect charity through the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. During this Year of Consecrated Life, we give you thanks for these courageous witnesses of Faith and models of inspiration. Their pursuit of holy lives teaches us to make a more perfect offering of ourselves to you. Continue to enrich your Church by calling forth sons and daughters who, having found the pearl of great price, treasure the Kingdom of Heaven above all things. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen."

At the pastoral council meeting last Monday I summarized the findings of our in-pew survey from last November. Next week I will begin sharing these results with you in a series of bulletin articles. We will offer the blessing of throats next weekend after all the masses for those who would like it. The blessing will be part of the daily noon mass on February 3rd as well.

]]>Mon, 25 Jan 2016 08:21:30 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-23-24-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-23-24-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 16-17, 2016This weekend begins a period of special prayer and intercession, promoted by the Catholic Church and known as "9 Days For Life." We carried an insert in the bulletin last week on pro-life news which made note of it. In the middle of the novena is the 43rd anniversary of Roe vs Wade. I ask you to set aside time each day for these nine days to pray for our country, that our country might recognize and reaffirm the sanctity of life.

It won't be long before we enter into the season of Lent on Ash Wednesday, which falls in the calendar quite early this year, on February 10. Make plans for to attend our Friday Fish Fry, followed by stations of the cross. For a complete list of Lenten activities, keep an eye on the bulletin.

I am looking forward to attending our two volunteer appreciation evenings. The first on January 23rd will recognize our youth appreciation; adults will have their party on January 29th. I always enjoy recognizing all the hard work our volunteers do to support our parish.

]]>Wed, 20 Jan 2016 02:03:14 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-16-17-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-16-17-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 9-10, 2016This weekend closes out the Christmas season. We remember the baptism of Jesus today, the event that launches Jesus on his mission of salvation. His baptism gives us another insight into the meaning of Christmas, although now he is no longer an infant.

'Like us in all things but sin' is the phrase used by St. Paul to describe Jesus' full acceptance of our human condition. John the Baptist hesitated before this humble willingness because he recognized Jesus as the Lamb of God. Perhaps he heard the words of our gospel today, confirming both the identity of Jesus as the beloved son as well as His mission to save us.

When you leave Church, or the next time you come in, approach the font and make a mindful sign of the cross, reflecting on today's feast. Doing this will make the Christmas message a permanent fixture of our spiritual life.

]]>Wed, 20 Jan 2016 02:00:33 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-9-10-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-9-10-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 2-3, 2016As we prepare to conclude the Christmas season (next Sunday, the Baptism of the Lord, is the final act of Christmas) I want to express my thanks for the many ways you have shown your generosity, to the parish, to the poor, and to us friars who live and work here. Gift tags flew off the giving tree in early December; as a result, several nursing homes experienced a special Christmas, thanks to your gifts. xxx of Christmas dinners were distributed to those most in need; many children received toys who would likely not have found many presents under the tree. The youth group's coat drive, the first of its kind in our parish, exceeded expectations.

We friars are grateful for many packages of Christmas treats and other gifts. I estimate that we have at least a two month supply of cookies on hand. Our daily prayers for our benefactors will certainly continue.

We have entered fully into the Jubilee Year of Mercy, and most weeks I will include a selection of the Pope's letter for your reflection. It would be sad if we let our attention slip away from this opportunity to be anchored in God's mercy. Don't forget that we will be featuring in our church bulletin your experiences of giving and receiving mercy.

"With our eyes fixed on Jesus and his merciful gaze, we experience the love of the Most Holy Trinity. The mission Jesus received from the Father was that of revealing the mystery of divine love in its fullness. 'God is love' (1 Jn 4:8,16), John affirms for the first and only time in all of Holy Scripture. This love has now been made visible and tangible in Jesus’ entire life. His person is nothing but love, a love given gratuitously. The relationships he forms with the people who approach him manifest something entirely unique and unrepeatable. The signs he works, especially in favour of sinners, the poor, the marginalized, the sick, and the suffering, are all meant to teach mercy. Everything in him speaks of mercy. Nothing in him is devoid of compassion." [par. 8]

]]>Thu, 07 Jan 2016 01:59:17 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-2-3-2016
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-2-3-2016Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 26-27, 2015The calendar year is coming to a close this week. On Friday we begin a new year with the celebration of Mary the Mother of God. Please join us at our vigil mass on Thursday evening at 4:30pm, or at our 10:00am mass on Friday.

Our Archbishop, Allen Vigneron, has written to the priests of the Archdiocese of Detroit regarding two important issues in the current political, and public, discourse— a restriction on Muslim immigrants entering the United States, and protection of religious liberties for all Americans. He has shared his correspondence with the Imams Council of Michigan. Even though the events which prompted this statement took place earlier this month, I wanted to make his comments available to you, since these issues will be with us for a long time.

"In light of a public proposal put forth recently to restrict the immigration of Muslims into the United States based on their religion, I thought it would be helpful to remind everyone of the Catholic teaching regarding Islam. Fifty years ago, the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council taught that the Catholic Church treats with respect those who practice the religion of Islam. And for these past fifty years, Catholics and Muslims in southeastern Michigan have enjoyed warm relations marked by a spirit of mutual respect and esteem. While the Catholic Church refrains from weighing in for or against individual candidates for a particular political office, the Church does and should speak to the morality of this important and far-reaching issue of religious liberty. Especially as our political discourse addresses the very real concerns about the security of our country, our families, and our values, we need to remember that religious rights are a cornerstone of these values. Restricting or sacrificing these religious rights and liberties out of fear – instead of defending them and protecting them in the name of mutual respect and justice – is a rationalization which fractures the very foundation of morality on which we stand. This also threatens the foundation of religious liberty that makes it possible for us to freely practice our faith. These are not only Catholic sentiments on these issues; these, I believe, are the sentiments of all Americans."

]]>Tue, 29 Dec 2015 02:07:53 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-26-27-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-26-27-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 19-20, 2015The friars and the staff wish all of you a very blessed and merry Christmas. I look forward to seeing you at the Christmas masses and the Holy Family masses over the weekend. Most parish activities are on hold as we focus on the birth of Christ and family visits. Be assured that the friars will be praying for you during these days. Bro. Philip celebrates his birthday on December 25! If you see him, don't forget to wish him a happy birthday.

Christmas is the first major feast of the Jubilee Year of Mercy which began on December 8. Many of you have gone to confession to prepare for the feast and have experienced the reassurance of God's forgiveness. Let us all look at the birth of Jesus as an act of God's mercy. How is God's mercy reflected in the coming of the Son into our world? The next section of Pope Francis' message, the Face of Mercy, reminds us that God prepared his people for the ultimate gift of mercy throughout the Old Testament and often in the psalms:

“Patient and merciful.” These words often go together in the Old Testament to describe God’s nature. His being merciful is concretely demonstrated in his many actions throughout the history of salvation where his goodness prevails over punishment and destruction. In a special way the Psalms bring to the fore the grandeur of his merciful action: “He forgives all your iniquity, he heals all your diseases, he redeems your life from the pit, he crowns you with steadfast love and mercy” (Ps 103:3-4). Another psalm, in an even more explicit way, attests to the concrete signs of his mercy: “He executes justice for the oppressed; he gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets the prisoners free; the Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous. The Lord watches over the sojourners, he upholds the widow and the fatherless; but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin” (Ps 146:7-9). Here are some other expressions of the Psalmist: “He heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds… The Lord lifts up the downtrodden, he casts the wicked to the ground” (Ps 147:3, 6). In short, the mercy of God is not an abstract idea, but a concrete reality with which he reveals his love as of that of a father or a mother, moved to the very depths out of love for their child. It is hardly an exaggeration to say that this is a “visceral” love. It gushes forth from the depths naturally, full of tenderness and compassion, indulgence and mercy. [par. 6]

]]>Tue, 22 Dec 2015 02:11:25 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-19-20-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-19-20-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 12-13, 2015We are now officially into the Jubilee Year of Mercy. One of the great blessings of being a priest is to encounter with another person this mercy within the sacrament of reconciliation. The spirit was indeed present last Wednesday evening among all the faithful and the priests who celebrated God's mercy at our Advent penance service. In the days ahead, don't be hesitant about encountering long lines at the remaining parish confessional times on Tuesday mornings and Saturday afternoon leading up to Christmas. Fr. Jeremy and myself will both be available on the two remaining Tuesdays and on Saturday the 19th.

In 40 of archdiocesan parishes there have begun special renewal events, called Come Encounter Christ. These evening sessions feature song, prayer and preaching. I encourage you to put some time aside in the following months to attend one. Sessions go from 7-8:30pm. Here are some of the nearby parishes and the dates when they host Come Encounter Christ:

Our Lady of LaSalette January 10-12 Our Lady of Sorrows February 21-21 St. Regis on March 20-22

From the second paragraph of Pope Francis' The Face of Mercy: "We need constantly to contemplate the mystery of mercy. It is a wellspring of joy, serenity, and peace. Our salvation depends on it. Mercy: the word reveals the very mystery of the Most Holy Trinity. Mercy: the ultimate and supreme act by which God comes to meet us. Mercy: the fundamental law that dwells in the heart of every person who looks sincerely into the eyes of his brothers and sisters on the path of life. Mercy: the bridge that connects God and man, opening our hearts to the hope of being loved forever despite our sinfulness."

]]>Tue, 15 Dec 2015 02:06:15 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-12-13-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-12-13-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 5-6, 2015On Tuesday, the jubilee year of mercy formally begins on the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. Pope Francis will open the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica. in the following weeks, similar special doors will open in Rome and in dioceses around the world. The door represents the way to salvation that Christ opened for us by his incarnation, his suffering, death, and resurrection. Passage through these doors brings a deeper awareness of the call to God's mercy.

Locally, the Holy Door of Blessed Sacrament Cathedral will be opened at a special mass on Dec. 13 at 11:00 AM, and afterwards on the First Friday of every month: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM and on Sunday afternoons from 1:00 - 3:00 PM The door to our reconciliation room will be our local "door" to God's mercy. This Wednesday evening at 7:00pm we will host a gathering of local Catholic churches to celebrate this mercy. Other priests will be helping to bring this mercy where it is needed most.

These words come from the opening paragraph of the official document announcing the Jubilee year of mercy. Join me in reflecting on these words this week.

"The Father, “rich in mercy” (Eph 2:4), after having revealed his name to Moses as “a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness” (Ex34:6), has never ceased to show, in various ways throughout history, his divine nature. In the “fullness of time” (Gal 4:4), when everything had been arranged according to his plan of salvation, he sent his only Son into the world, born of the Virgin Mary, to reveal his love for us in a definitive way. Whoever sees Jesus sees the Father (cf. Jn 14:9). Jesus of Nazareth, by his words, his actions, and his entire person[1] reveals the mercy of God."

A reminder that we will be featuring your experiences of mercy in this bulletin. Fr. Jeremy will be in charge of this feature. See last week's bulletin for details.

What came to mind as you entered the church today and looked at the Advent wreath which hangs over the baptismal font? Did it bring to mind the family Advent wreath that sat in the middle of the dining room table when you were younger? The simplicity of the wreath with its four candles has always expressed to me the special nature of this season we begin today which calls for a heightened level of spiritual awareness.

The scripture readings during Advent speak this same message. The Sunday gospels will emphasize the importance of attending to the present moment in an active way. In the weeks ahead we'll hear about John the Baptist, and then Mary. Both figures lifted expectant hearts to God and were profoundly ready to do His will from moment to moment. I pray that we will come to imitate the readiness of John and Mary in the busy days ahead.

Please mark your calendar for December 8, the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. Besides being a holy day of obligation, this day begins the Jubilee Year of Mercy. On the following day, you will have an opportunity to receive the mercy of God at our annual Advent reconciliation service. It takes place at 7:00 pm. Several other area Catholic churches and their priests will be joining us. I hope you will keep us busy that night! Check the bulletin insert for other times that we will have confessions here at the parish.

]]>Mon, 30 Nov 2015 02:32:14 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-28-29-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-28-29-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 21-22, 2015The friars wish all of you a holy and blessed Thanksgiving, and safe travel for those of you who will be on the road. If you are spending Thanksgiving here, please join us on Thursday morning at 9:00 am for Mass. Weather permitting, I plan on visiting family, either in Indianapolis or South Bend.

A heartfelt thanks goes out to the many volunteers who donated to the Franciscan Outreach on behalf of our Thanksgiving Dinner program. Over 350 area families will be able to enjoy their holiday due to your generosity. A special appreciation for those who will help distribute this food on Monday and Tuesday, which is a monumental task in itself.

Next week is the first Sunday of Advent and the beginning of a new cycle of worship. We will be hearing from the gospel of Matthew on most Sundays for the next twelve months. On December 8 we begin the Holy Year of Mercy. We are planning a special bulletin column which will feature reflections by parishioners on their experience of the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. There will be more details in next week's bulletin.

Here is a listing of the works of mercySpiritual Works of Mercy: Counsel the doubtful, instruct the ignorant, admonish sinners, comfort the afflicted, forgive offenses, bear wrongs patiently, and pray for the living and the dead.

Corporal Works of Mercy: Feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit the imprisoned, bury the dead.

]]>Mon, 23 Nov 2015 03:42:22 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-21-22-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-21-22-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 14-15, 2015We are only two weeks away from the beginning of Advent, and three weeks away from the start of the Holy Year of Mercy. This Holy Year begins on December 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. I hope that our parish can fully enter into the spirit of this year. I want to keep the theme of the holy year at the center of our parish.

This week and next week focus on the ending of all things, giving us an opportunity to reflect upon our lives in the light of our final destiny. These reflections do not come easily to us, and it is important to let the liturgy lead us into the deeper meaning of our lives.

I plan to preach at all the masses next week, the feast of Christ the King, and the end of our year of worship. I will give you an update on the past year and some information on what is coming in the months ahead. I will be asking you to fill out another brief in-pew survey too. We had a great response last year. The results have helped us in our planning. I hope you will be willing to do another survey. Your responses are absolutely anonymous and will help me and the pastoral council better understand our unique parish community.

]]>Mon, 16 Nov 2015 02:34:44 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-14-15-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-14-15-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 7-8, 2015You may have noticed our ushers during the last two weeks, walking the church aisles during mass. Our ushers were conducting the annual October mass count, a practice required by the Archdiocese (actually all dioceses). Our results may have been affected by the big Saturday football game two weeks ago, but by and large the count shows our attendance to vary somewhat over the last few years:

Many factors go into the weekly attendance numbers, and they certainly don't reflect the number of registered parishioners. (Currently we have about 550 registered households.) All the same, this is a good opportunity to remind any of you who are not registered to do so. Forms are available in the gathering area.

Speaking of the gathering area, in the coming weeks you will see a new feature there. Near the statue of the Infant of Prague will be an information station. You will be able to find registration forms, handouts, or information on coming events. As we get more organized, we will need people to assist at the booth before and after masses.

]]>Mon, 16 Nov 2015 02:34:10 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-7-8-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-7-8-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 31 - November 1, 2015Both Fr. Jeremy and I really appreciated your affirmation this past weekend on Priesthood Sunday. Both of us enjoy our ministry at Transfiguration Parish, as well as the many opportunities we have to get to know you better. Let us keep each other in prayers that we all may more fully live out the vocation that God has given to each of us.

Speaking of vocations, this Sunday, November 1 begins National Vocations Week, an annual week-long celebration of the Catholic Church in the United States dedicated to promote vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life through prayer and education, and to renew our prayers and support for those who are considering one of these particular vocations. I invite you to join us in prayer for vocations. Fr. Larry Zurek, OFM, a former pastor here, is our newly-appointed Franciscan vocation director. I know he and Fr. Luis appreciate your prayers during their first months on the job!

For some time I've thought it helpful to devote a weekend to reflect with you on our shared experience during our Sunday (and Saturday evening) Eucharist worship. The homily for next weekend will be focused on the importance of the Mass in our Catholic lives, and how we can continue to deepen our participation and awareness of this hour we give to God every week.

]]>Mon, 16 Nov 2015 02:33:40 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-31-november-1-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-31-november-1-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 24-25, 2015In a few weeks the Holy Year which Pope Francis proclaimed will begin. I hope that we all will consider ourselves personally invited to enter deeply into the gift of God's mercy during this time. I will highlight a portion of the Pope's writings during the Holy Year which will begin on December 8th. The parish pastoral council and staff have been discussing ways in which we can participate in this holy year.

This Friday evening, come and enjoy a tasty spaghetti meal which we host every year to support our Franciscan Outreach program. It will run from 5 to 7 pm. The Outreach program has an open house this weekend; take a few minutes after mass to visit the place where so many hungry people are helped twice a week. (Note: we have to postpone the meal. Check back for the new date!)

Just a reminder that next weekend we will incorporate the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick into the 4:30 pm and 10:00 am masses.

]]>Mon, 26 Oct 2015 03:40:58 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-24-25-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-24-25-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 17-18, 2015This weekend we say goodbye to our SOS guests and thank you to everyone who pitched in to create a hospitable space for them. Thanks especially to Tim and Nancy Cahoon who guided our many volunteers in their service to the homeless.

Please plan to spend some time after masses next weekend to attend our Franciscan Outreach Open House. You've seen the donation box in the gathering area, and perhaps you wondered what happens to all the food. You will be able to see how food is received, sorted, packed and delivered twice a week to area poor.

On the weekend of October 31 - November 1 we will offer the sacrament of the anointing of the sick at the 4:30 pm Saturday mass and at the 10:00 am Sunday mass. The Church gives much latitude to the kinds of sicknesses that might lead us to seek out this sacrament. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, "the special grace of the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick has as its effects:- the uniting of the sick person to the passion of Christ, for his own good and that of the whole Church;- the strengthening, peace, and courage to endure in a Christian manner the sufferings of illness or old age;- the forgiveness of sins, if the sick person was not able to obtain it through the sacrament of Penance;- the restoration of health, if it is conducive to the salvation of his soul;- the preparation for passing over to eternal life."

Please find a place at the edge of the pew along the main aisle of the church. After the homily, Fr. Jeremy and myself will first bless you by holding our hands over your head, and then return to anoint your forehead and hands.

]]>Mon, 19 Oct 2015 04:04:03 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-17-18-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-17-18-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 10-11, 2015Many parishioners are generously involved with the South Oakland Shelter this week. Once a year a door is opened up to a world that few of us experience: the loss of a home. Thanks to SOS the burden of homelessness is eased as families get the time and help they need to recover a place to call home. Thanks to Nancy and Tim Cahoon for their tireless efforts over many years to organize us to take our turn to host SOS.

October weekends are often home to multiple activities. Also this weekend the Knights of Columbus will be having their tootsie roll drive to support their summer camp for mentally challenged children. Next weekend is Mission Sunday, one of several opportunities we are given to support the mission work of the Church.

The Synod on the Family has finished its first week. Please continue to pray for the 270 members of the Synod as they address very important family issues. I came across Pope Francis' opening speech from and wanted to share a few lines of it with you.

"In this extremely difficult social and marital context, the Church is called to carry out her mission in fidelity, truth and love. To carry out her mission in fidelity to her Master as a voice crying out in the desert, in defending faithful love and encouraging the many families which live married life as an experience which reveals of God’s love; in defending the sacredness of life, of every life; in defending the unity and indissolubility of the conjugal bond as a sign of God’s grace and of the human person’s ability to love seriously.

To carry out her mission in truth, which is not changed by passing fads or popular opinions. The truth which protects individuals and humanity as a whole from the temptation of self-centredness and from turning fruitful love into sterile selfishness, faithful union into temporary bonds. 'Without truth, charity degenerates into sentimentality. Love becomes an empty shell, to be filled in an arbitrary way. In a culture without truth, this is the fatal risk facing love.'” (BENEDICT XVI, Caritas in Veritate, 3).

]]>Tue, 13 Oct 2015 05:17:52 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-10-11-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-10-11-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 3-4, 2015October 3-4, 2015Thanks to all who signed up for parish ministries this weekend. We have many opportunities for you to be involved in God's work. I appreciate the work of the Discipleship Commission in organizing the Time and Talent weekend every year. I plan to revisit the liturgical ministries such as readers, altar servers and Eucharistic ministers next month at a Sunday homily.

This weekend is also set aside as Respect Life Sunday. Our parish will host once again two prayer opportunities this Monday evening, October 5. The evening will begin with a Holy Hour at 7pm, followed by Mass at 8pm. Please join with others in praying for a national change of heart towards the unborn, the unwanted and the defenseless of our society.

]]>Tue, 13 Oct 2015 05:16:55 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-3-4-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-3-4-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSeptember 26-27, 2015I want to recognize the hard work of our Parish Men's Club in preparing the breakfast for the parish last Sunday. Our guests, women and men religious from our parishes' past, enjoyed both the Mass as well as the fellowship and food afterwards.

One last reminder that our religious ed classes start this Sunday on Sept. 27. We also have our annual visit from Bethlehem Christian Families with Olive wood carvings to help raise funds for Christians in the Holy Land.,

If your volunteer work involves using our parish kitchen, please make plans to attend one of the food safety classes, either Sept. 27 @ 1:30p or Oct. 1 @ 7pm.

]]>Tue, 13 Oct 2015 05:15:52 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-26-27-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-26-27-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSeptember 19-20, 2015In a few days. Pope Francis will be on American soil for his first visit to our. country. Many people will be listening carefully to what he will say to us. He has already made it clear' that he wants to experience the poor as well as the powerful during his visit. I am praying that the Lord will work through.' him to bring reconciliation wherever it is needed in our country. I am als praying that we will be open to his word's to us as a nation.

The feast of St. Francis of Assisi is coming on October 4th, a Sunday this year. For the third year in a row, the friars will be.'hosting a pet blessing on Saturday, October 3rd. The blessing will begin at 11:00am and will take place in the prayer garden. We are getting a bigger crowd every year, so come early for a good place.

On Saturday evening the celebration of the passing of St. Francis, which we call the Transitus will be held at the Felician Sisters' chapel in Livonia at 7:00pm in the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Convent, 36800 Schoolcraft, Livonia, MI 48154. All are welcome to come to this moving service.

]]>Tue, 13 Oct 2015 05:08:51 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-19-20-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-19-20-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSeptember 12-13, 2015We are about to enter into several very busy weeks of activity here at Transfiguration parish. Next Sunday we are observing the Year of Consecrated Life by inviting to the 10am mass all religious who have served at the four parishes in years past or who currently are members of Transfiguration Parish. This event is meant to recognize their ministry to us.

At the same mass we are observing Catechetical Sunday, and lifting up in prayer and blessing all those who have committed to teaching religion to our young people. (Classes will begin on the following Sunday.) I am so happy that a significant number of adults have signed up for our adult bible study too. I hope that a love for learning about our faith will continue to increase throughout the parish. And please continue to encourage friends and family members to consider joining our RCIA program if they have talked to you about becoming Catholic.

I want to encourage all families with teen age children to join our youth group. You may have read in recent bulletins that we are joining with La Salette parish's youth group in the hope that a larger group of teens will provide more possibilities for the kind of activities we want to provide.

Finally at the National Shrine of the Little Flower, the fall 40 Days for Life begins with a special mass on September 16, 2015, 7:00 – 9:00pm. A number of parishioners have been active in witnessing against abortion and for life, and I encourage you to attend this mass, and pray for a renewed ethic of life. Recent revelations about Planned Parenthood's practice of selling of parts of aborted babies has opened many eyes to a growing insensitivity to life.

]]>Tue, 13 Oct 2015 05:01:45 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-12-13-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-12-13-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSeptember 5-6, 2015Over the last several months we have offered an inquiry session once a month for people who are interested in knowing more about the Catholic faith. Beginning on Sunday, September 13, our Sunday RCIA program will begin. If you know of anyone who is ready to commit (or re-commit) themselves to the Lord within our Catholic faith, please urge them to begin attending these meetings. If you would like to become a sponsor for someone preparing to enter our faith, please let us know too. Sponsors experience a renewal of personal faith as they accompany another's journey.

Our daily Mass will take place at 9:00am Monday on Labor Day instead of 12:00 noon. Come join us as we mark the ending of summer and pray that God blesses the work we do. Later in the day, we friars will be in neighboring Berkley to attend a short ceremony of welcoming two postulants into their first year of Franciscan formation.

Looking ahead: The biennial clergy convocation occurs the week after next, September 13 to 17. I will be joining the priests of the archdiocese for four days of workshops and fraternal community at Boyne Highlands. Then, on September 20th I will be leading a pilgrimage for high school students in Assisi and Rome, returning on October 1. Thanks in advance to Fr. Jeremy for picking up the extra work while I am gone!

]]>Fri, 11 Sep 2015 03:11:39 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-5-6-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/september-5-6-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 29-30, 2015In your next envelope mailing you will notice an envelop for the CSA (Catholic Services Appeal). Thanks to all who have already contributed to this year's appeal. Together as a parish we have already pledged or donated $33,000.00 This envelop is for those who are still waiting to support the CSA, about 300 households/families. A modest donation of $35.00 from each of you would bring us close to the $7,200.00 that our parish has been asked to give to the CSA. Again, f you have already made your donation, you need not worry about this once-a-year envelop.

Earlier this month, Pope Francis announced a World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. The Greek Orthodox Church has already made such a day part of the yearly cycle of prayer. Now the Roman Catholic Church is joining them on September 1 of every year to pray on behalf of the world that carries our human life. Pope Francis says: "The annual World Day of prayer for the Care of Creation offers to individual believers and to the community a precious opportunity to renew our personal participation in this vocation as custodians of creation, raising to God our thanks for the marvelous works that He has entrusted to our care, invoking his help for the protection of creation and his mercy for the sins committed against the world in which we live." The first of these days of prayer occurs this coming Tuesday.

We Franciscans are happy to encourage you to make this day special in some way. I always notice the frequent signs over our local bridges indicating the Rouge River or one of many branches, and the slogan, "Ours to protect." On September 1 we pray that this admonition be broadened to include the entire world.

]]>Mon, 31 Aug 2015 04:05:08 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-29-30-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-29-30-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 22-23, 2015I find myself now glancing ahead in my calendar and noticing that the monthly round of evening commission and pastoral council meetings will begin soon. On Pentecost Sunday several parishioners joined the leadership of the parish. I appreciate their willingness to share their personal gifts with the parish, and I look forward to working with all of you who are dedicated to parish leadership.

I don't mean to suggest that everything comes to a halt during the summer months. For example, the parish organizations which come under Christian Service Commission work throughout the year, especially the Franciscan Outreach food program and the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Thanks also to the many volunteers who helped at Crossroads last month. Coordination of for the week of October 11th when we host the South Oakland Shelter has already begun as well.

The Education Commission is planning a weekday evening bible study, beginning in a few weeks. If you would like to come to the Sunday mass with more background on the scriptures which are read each Sunday, this course is for you. More information will follow.

]]>Mon, 24 Aug 2015 04:54:08 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-22-23-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-22-23-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 15-16, 2015Several parishioners were interested in following up on my reflections for the feast of the Transfiguration last Sunday. I had ended my homily with four suggested ways to make this feast more vital to our spiritual life, individually and as a parish.

1. Prayerfulness leading to inner transformation - the entire scene begins with Jesus' plan to share some time in prayer with Peter, James and John. The transfigured Jesus represents in a dramatic way the inner changes that prayer and meditation can bring about in all of us.

2. A spirit of joy ("It is good for us to be here.") - This is the only sensible thing that Peter says as the transfiguration is taking place. Jesus is basking in the joyful presence of His Father. It is out this joy that God created the world and then sent Jesus to bring the world back to him.

3. A lamp shining in dark places - And I might add, "in dark times." The gospels can answer the longings and ease the confusions of our world. However the path to gospel wisdom is a narrow one which first takes us to the cross. We become a lamp of guidance when we have the courage to learn from the One who is gentle and humble of heart.

4. "This is my beloved Son. Listen to Him." - The Transfiguration invites us into the realm of the beloved. God the Father, Son and Spirit want to envelope us in the belovedness of the Trinity. We in turn are to share what we have received into our world.

I ended my thoughts with a short quotation from The Joy of the Gospel: " Jesus wants evangelizers who proclaim the good news not only with words, but above all by a life transfigured by God’s presence." [par. 259]

Parents who have children in our religious education program: you will be receiving a letter from me reminding you to register all your children in our programs. Although classes won't begin until the end of September, please turn in your registration forms as soon as possible.

]]>Tue, 18 Aug 2015 03:20:04 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-15-16-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-15-16-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 8-9, 2015I hope to see many of you at our parish picnic this Sunday afternoon. This is the only event where the entire parish can come together and enjoy each other's company, and meet fellow parishioners whose paths rarely cross our own. The parish office will be closed on Monday for post-picnic clean-up.

Next Sunday after the noon mass Fr. Jeremy and I will lead a tour of our parish church. The tour will cover the history and meaning of the sacred objects we have become so familiar with. Our church contains so many beautiful features which are meant to help us arrive at a deeper appreciation of our faith. Fr. Jeremy and I see the tour as an opportunity to evangelize too. I encourage you to invite a friend or family member who is seeking to connect with our Catholic faith to join you in the tour.

The Christlife program will resume in late September with part three of the series: Sharing Christ. Those of you who participated in the first two parts will be hearing from us soon about this final series. The Sharing Christ sessions are designed to teach participants some practical ways to share our faith (such as bringing someone to a church tour!). The entire three series of Discovering, Following, and Sharing Christ will be offered again, beginning in late January or early February of 2016.

Bro. Phil, who is always so helpful to the parish and the friary, will be heading to California to attend a conference for Franciscan brothers. He will stay there to enjoy some well-earned vacation time and will be back on August 20.

Thanks for your response to “Our Doors Are Open. Welcome!” Continue to be alert to helping anyone who may be interested. It might be helpful to review why some people leave and why some come back.

People give a variety of reasons. Some say they just drifted away, maybe when in college or when they left home. Others say when they moved to a different city they didn’t start going to a new parish. For others it was issues involved with marriage, divorce or remarriage; being hurt by a priest, Sister, or lay staff person; disagreeing with Church teaching; not feeling spiritually fed by Mass or homilies; abortion or post abortion; losing interest in organized religion; no longer believing in God.

Returning to Church may be easy for some. For others who were deeply hurt or have a lot of questions a returning Catholic group may be helpful. In a group they will receive support from others and from hearing their stories.

People share many reasons why they returned to Church: miss the community and friends in the parish; want to give their children good example and be able to answer their questions about the Church; need to update their knowledge because their religious education was poor; want to receive Communion or go to Confession; want to have their marriage blessed by the Church; getting older and want to get right with God.

We know the Holy Spirit is working within each person. The Spirit is the mover of hearts. Our prayers for those away from Church are also important. Let anyone who is interested know that at Transfiguration our doors are always open. Fr. Bill and I, Deacon Tom and Mike Dillon are always willing to listen. On our website transfigsfld.com we will be putting more information. Peace! Fr. Jeremy

]]>Mon, 03 Aug 2015 03:34:49 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-1-2-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-1-2-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJuly 25-26, 2015Something unusual happened in our gospel reading this weekend. And it will continue to happen for the next four weeks. We jumped from the gospel of Mark to the gospel of John, chapter 6. Such a shift in the book of Sunday readings is highly unusual and deserves some comment. One purpose is to supplement the gospel of Mark which is the shortest of the four gospels; the other more important purpose is to give the faithful an extended teaching on the Eucharist.

Today we heard the story of the multiplication of the loaves, an event also included in the other three gospels. The fourth gospel does more than relate the miracle, however. John continues with a long discourse about the Jesus as the bread of life. Week 2: Jesus calls himself the bread of life; week 3: Jesus fulfills and surpasses the gift of manna; week 4: those who eat this bread will have eternal life; week 5: some people leave Jesus and the disciples remain--"to whom shall we go? (We celebrate our patronal feast of the Transfiguration on week 2 of this series which has its own set of readings.)

The weeks ahead will give us an opportunity to meditate upon the sacrament of the Eucharist. Although the forms of worship have changed over the centuries, the belief that bread and wine are transformed into the very body and blood of Jesus has remained unchanged. I hope that our love and gratitude for this sacrament will deepen in the weeks ahead as we listen and take to heart chapter 6 of John's gospel.

Today is a good opportunity to thank our small group of volunteers who prepare the church for our weekend services. Immediately after the 12pm mass on Friday, they are busy dusting, cleaning and polishing. I am truly grateful for your hard work!

]]>Thu, 30 Jul 2015 04:39:55 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-25-26-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-25-26-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJuly 18-19, 2015I had an enjoyable vacation, which included a wedding in Illinois and a family reunion and a family reunion in Wisconsin. Through all the miles of travel, you were never very far away in my thoughts. I appreciate the extra work that Fr. Jeremy and Bro. Phil took on while I was gone.

The world does not stand still while one enjoys some time away from work. The Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage was announced shortly after I left on vacation. I spent a lot of time reflecting on how this change will affect the lives of faithful Catholics. I read a number of official church responses to the ruling, including the one from the Michigan Catholic Conference which we printed in the bulletin.

I realized how important it will be for the Church not to lose perspective. The Church has spent most of its existence holding to truths and practices that are in tension with the particular society it finds herself in. That tension can be intense and discomforting at times, but that same tension ought not place the believer in a defensive position. If anything, our witness to the value of Christian marriage should become clearer.

The bishops of Michigan have made available some helpful resources on their website. You can find them here: (Paula, they were announced a few months ago. Could you find the link and put it here?) now that the Supreme Court has brought the marriage debate to center stage, it is important for us to affirm what the Catholic Church teaches on marriage.

Vacation Bible School starts on Monday, 8:45! Exciting days! Remember in your prayers all the children and the teachers and helpers. Next Sunday the 19th parishioners provide lunch for Crossroads Soup Kitchen. Thanks to all of you who contributed or are working and to the Christian Service Commission and Mike Dillon.

On August 3rd some parishioners will also be participating in the End Homeless Run/Walk fundraiser for South Oakland Shelter. We will host the homeless here the week of October 11. Thanks for being generous and active as a parish—Franciscan Outreach every Monday and Wednesday, St. Vincent de Paul, SOS, the Crossroads Soup Kitchen, collections for missions and many other ways.

This Sunday after the 10:00 Mass I will host an “inquiry session.” It is a friendly gathering in my office for those who have questions about Church teaching or want to know more about their faith. Some want to explore becoming Catholic. All are welcome. No commitment. Those who choose to do so will begin the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation on Adults) program after Labor Day.

Save the date for a tour of the Church on Sunday, August 16, after the noon Mass. Parishioners and anyone interested are invited. We will try to answer the questions you have. You can have a closer look at the sacred vessels, the sacristy and vestments. Or you may be interested in the art and symbolism and history of the Church.

Perhaps you can think of someone you can invite and bring with you. Your neighbors or friends may be curious about how we worship here at Transfiguration. They may like to see our Reconciliation Room and what we do there, or know the history of the Stations of the Cross. In “The Joy of the Gospel” Pope Francis notes that there are people “who preserve a deep and sincere faith, expressing it in different ways, but seldom taking part in worship.” Maybe they have never been invited to see a Church. Your suggestions for the tour are welcome. Peace! Fr. Jeremy

]]>Mon, 20 Jul 2015 05:15:31 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-11-12-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-11-12-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJuly 4-5, 2015Blessings on all of you on this Independence Day Weekend! May the days be joyful for you and an opportunity to praise God as Pope Francis does in his new encyclical Laudato Sifor the beauty of our Sister Mother Earth.

We have special fervent prayers for our country and all Catholic families after the decision of the Supreme Court to redefine marriage. Archbishop Vigneron and Michigan’s Catholic Bishops affirm two important truths: 1) “That every human person deserves respect and compassion. The experience of same-sex attraction is a reality that calls for attention, sensitivity and pastoral care. 2) …That marriage is and can only be the union of one man and one woman.” For the full text go www.micatholic.org.

There were several significant events this past week. July 1 was the feast of Blessed Junipero Serra, the Franciscan who in 1769 founded San Diego, the first of nine California missions he founded. Pope Francis will declare him a saint when he visits Washington, D.C. in September. Also on July 1 Thomas Basset was installed at Grand Knight of our Duns Scotus Council No.14928. We welcome and pray for him and for all the Knights of Columbus who serve our parish and Church in many ways. Our hearty thanks to Tim Cahoon for generous service as Grand Knight.

Thanks for your welcome and your generosity to Fr. Koos Walters for the missions of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. Peace!

Fr. Jeremy

]]>Mon, 20 Jul 2015 04:52:48 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-4-5-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-4-5-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 27-28, 2015I ended last week's bulletin saying that I would soon be on vacation; maybe you're surprised to hear from me again. Since our bulletin deadline is Monday, I'm writing this before actually leaving, and I really am not here as you read this today! Fr. Jeremy is now home from his retreat (and trying to hide his halo from you.) He will take care of the weekly bulletin column until I return.

The new encyclical letter, Laudato Si has been out for over a week, and the reaction from Catholics and other commentators is wide and varied. If you have followed the news from the encyclical, you are aware that Pope Francis took its title from a beautiful poem written by St. Francis of Assisi, The Canticle to Brother Sun.

Franciscans are familiar with the special consideration that St. Francis had for God's creation, and we tend to be partial to concerns about the environment. I will be reading Laudato Si during my vacation and will share my thoughts with you in a future column. Please find a copy and read it. We live in a wonderful age which puts at our fingertips so much useful (and sometimes useless) information. The most fruitful response that a thoughtful Catholic can make is to read it for oneself!

]]>Mon, 20 Jul 2015 03:55:04 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-27-28-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-27-28-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 20-21, 2015Last Sunday's gospel contained two parables about seeds and plants. These parables reminded me to share with you some information on our own parish grounds. Who can forget the many weeks that it took to repair the drainage sewer along Code Road? The sewer work is finished, but some of the damage incurred along the way is waiting to be fixed, including the parish sprinkler system. It cannot be operated until it is repaired.

As a result, the landscape plants around the front entrance have not yet been replaced. Those plants took too much salt damage and had to be removed. Once the sprinkler system is operative again, new permanent landscaping will be put in. We will soon plant some annuals however. Also, the hedges around the prayer garden are being cut back due to winter die-off. They are already beginning to grow back on their own. In time they should restore themselves completely.

I will be taking part of my vacation from Wednesday of this week until July 8th. Fr. Jeremy will be on retreat all of that week. We'll have visiting priests come in for Thursday, Friday and the weekend. Our weekend visiting priest, Fr. Koos Walters, will be here as part of the Missionary Cooperative Program. There will be a second collection for the missions.

]]>Mon, 22 Jun 2015 09:03:45 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-20-21-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-20-21-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 13-14, 2015Fr. Joe Hund, who has spent much of his sabbatical with us, will be leaving this weekend to take up a new assignment in Lafayette, LA. I appreciate having him as part of our friary and parish family, and for the times that he has helped out with masses. The many years he spent in the missions of Africa and the Philippines have given him a broad perspective of the world-wide church.

We will be hearing from another missionary on the weekend of June 27-28. Fr. Koos Walter from the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales will speak at all the masses on behalf of the Mission Cooperative Program. This program raises money for the foreign missions by having parishes host one missionary every year. Next week's bulletin will have more information about Fr. Koos. I ask that you be generous to our missions.

Our summer vacation bible school on July 13-17 will soon be taking registrations. I hope that many of our younger parishioners can be part of it. Volunteers of all ages are always needed to help with the program.

]]>Mon, 15 Jun 2015 04:22:19 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-13-14-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-13-14-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 6-7, 2015This year the feast of St. Anthony occurs on a Saturday. Since he is so important in our Franciscan tradition, we will have a special mass at 9:00am on Saturday morning. The customary blessing and distribution of bread will take place at this mass. You are all welcome to come, especially those who have been keeping the nine week novena.

Fr. Jeremy will host the June inquiry session after the 10:00am mass next Sunday. This monthly session is designed for those who feel drawn to more about our Catholic faith. If you know somebody who has expressed interest in becoming Catholic, please urge them to come. The format is designed to be very flexible and non-threatening.

On May 19th we held our final Christlife session for Part II, Following Christ. I want to thank our leadership team, Al Brankiewicz, Nancy Peterson, and Deacon Tom Mohan for guiding the program over the last five months. The final ChristLife segment, Sharing Christ, will begin in late September, and will guide participants towards a more active and outgoing witness to our faith. Next winter we will begin all over again, and offer this program to you.

]]>Mon, 08 Jun 2015 04:31:48 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-6-7-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-6-7-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 31 - June 1, 2015Next Sunday Bishop Hanchon will celebrate the 10:00 am parish mass and will confirm our six candidates. I invite the rest of the parish to keep these young people in prayer this week, especially this Friday evening when they will have a special prayer vigil to help them prepare spiritually to be confirmed.

Confirmation is the third and final sacrament of initiation, the first two being Baptism and first Eucharist. Our six youth will be considered fully initiated into our faith. However they, like the rest of us, are still on a journey to arrive at the fuller maturity of faith. It is my prayer that these six young people will continue the practice of faith, along with their families and the entire parish family.

Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation contain untapped graces which take a life-time to mature. Participants in our ChristLife program are being renewed in the undiscovered graces of these sacraments. As we witness our young people's confirmation, let us ask the Lord to renew our whole parish in the Holy Spirit.

Thank you for your generosity to the St. Vincent de Paul Society last weekend. Our young conference is doing great work on behalf of those in need here in Southfield, thanks to your generous support.

]]>Mon, 01 Jun 2015 04:39:51 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-31-june-1-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-31-june-1-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 23-24, 2015After this weekend, our large paschal candle will return to its usual place near our baptismal font, marking the end of the Easter Season. Until next year, it will only burn to mark the beginning and the ending of the Christian journey: baptisms and funerals. Even unlit, however, the paschal candle represents the good news that Jesus was raised from the dead and continues to be present in our life. The gift of the Holy Spirit, which we celebrate today, establishes the Church in human history, and this Church exists to proclaim Jesus to the world.

To those who are graduating from high school or college: reserve the date of Sunday, June 14th at the 10:00am mass. The parish wants to celebrate your accomplishment. Another accomplishment deserving of special mention belongs to Alex Mays who will be awarded the rank of Eagle Scout on May 30th. You may recall that his Eagle Scout project was the new Way of the Cross which winds through the wooded section of our property.

I wish everyone a restful Memorial Day on Monday. There is certainly room on this national holiday for a reflection, once again taken from the Joy of the Gospel: "The memory of the faithful, like that of Mary, should overflow with the wondrous things done by God. Their hearts, growing in hope from the joyful and practical exercise of the love which they have received, will sense that each word of Scripture is a gift before it is a demand." [par. 142]

]]>Tue, 26 May 2015 04:30:29 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-23-24-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-23-24-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 16-17, 2015Congratulations to those couples who have reached significant wedding anniversaries this year. I appreciate your willingness to be present at our special mass at Sunday noon to receive your blessing. At all the masses this weekend we celebrate the Ascension of Jesus. Just as your wedding day marked the moment when you "left father and mother" to join with each other, we mark the day that Jesus left us in the graces of the Holy Spirit to return to his heavenly Father. Both celebrations bring reminders of our call to be faithful and responsible, to one another and to God as we make our way through life.

On Monday our pastoral council will continue working on a list of parish priorities. For the last several months the pastoral council has reflected on these priorities, established from a set of observations about our parish at this time in its life. (The survey last fall helped us formulate some of those observations, by the way.) The priorities will in turn help the pastoral council formulate the steps we need to take as a parish so that we can remain faithful to our mission.

With Pentecost only a week away, I thought we should take to heart these words from Pope Francis: "The fire of the Spirit is given in the form of tongues and leads us to believe in Jesus Christ who, by his death and resurrection, reveals and communicates to us the Father’s infinite mercy. On the lips of the catechist the first proclamation must ring out over and over: 'Jesus Christ loves you; he gave his life to save you; and now he is living at your side every day to enlighten, strengthen and free you.' This first proclamation is called 'first' not because it exists at the beginning and can then be forgotten or replaced by other more important things.It is first . . . because it is the principal proclamation, the one which we must hear again and again in different ways, the one which we must announce one way or another throughout the process of catechesis, at every level and moment." [164]

]]>Mon, 18 May 2015 03:20:14 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-16-17-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-16-17-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 9-10, 2015We celebrate Mother's Day this Sunday. I hope it is a special day for all of you whom God has called to motherhood. Even though it has been almost seven years since my mother passed away, she is still very present to me. If your mother is still alive, give her that extra hug!

Next Sunday afternoon we celebrate couples who have reached one of the wedding anniversary milestones that call for special recognition. Our parish recognition is a dinner beginning at 1:00 pm in the parish hall. I invite families who would like to receive a blessing on this occasion to attend the 12:00 pm mass beforehand. Please call the parish office if you plan on being included in the blessing at the noon mass.

You should have received your letter from me on the Catholic Services Appeal for 2015. There is an interesting and informative article in the Michigan Catholic which I found very encouraging. If you read it you will see that the average gift to the CSA is $280.00. Again, I hope to see an increase in the level of CSA participation within the parish, and if you were praying about how much to give, this average number may give you some help.

]]>Mon, 11 May 2015 03:07:18 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-9-10-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-9-10-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 2-3, 2015Congratulations to Isaiah and Matthew who celebrate their first communion at the 10:00am mass. They are giving to us an important witness about the Blessed Sacrament which we all need to take to heart. Their first sacramental encounter with the Body and Blood of Christ can lead us back in time to our own first encounter. I hope that a love for the Eucharist will be renewed in the hearts of all our parishioners today.

Looking ahead, at the end of the month the Church remembers the day of Pentecost, this year falling on Memorial Day weekend. The power of the Holy Spirit began to move the the first believers outward into the world, defining once and for all the four marks of the Church: one, holy, catholic, and apostolic. The last of these marks, "apostolic", is reflected in the evangelization activities we see growing in our archdiocese. We have prayed together for a new Pentecost for many months. I hope that these prayers will bear much fruit in our archdiocese.

At the 10:00am mass on May 24th our parish invokes the Holy Spirit in the selection of pastoral council representatives and commission members. In late April we provided nomination forms for these positions in the weekly bulletin. Nominations close on Monday, May 4th. If you haven't submitted a name, please do so today.

]]>Mon, 04 May 2015 02:38:49 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-2-3-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-2-3-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 25-26, 2015The month of May is always busy around here. Next Saturday we host the annual "Taste of Transfiguration" supper. Dishes prepared by parishioners who represent a variety of cultures will be available for your dining pleasure. We have a surprise addition to the Taste this year as well. Come and see what it will be!

Two young members of Transfiguration Parish will receive their first communion next Sunday at the 10:00am mass. These May celebrations certainly brighten the parish and are a joy to witness. I hope that their moment of grace will be a time for all of us to renew our appreciation of the Eucharist. After the noon mass on the same day, the Legion of Mary will conduct a May Crowning ceremony in the parish prayer garden. I hope many of you will be able to stay for this.

Very soon you will be receiving a letter from me regarding the annual Catholic Service Appeal, also known as the CSA appeal. Every year the Archdiocese of Detroit seeks your support for its many ministries that require funding from us. Please read the letter and accompanying brochure carefully and prayerfully. Your gift to the CSA supports the work of all the parishes and other religious institutions which carry out the mission given by our Risen Lord.

Did you know that our parish web page is updated almost every day? If you missed one of our events, it is very likely that pictures or even video of that event are available for you on the web page. We have a brief meeting at the end of each week to improve our coverage of parish activities. Bookmark us and come back often!

]]>Mon, 27 Apr 2015 04:25:09 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-25-26-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-25-26-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 18-19, 2015For several months I have been discussing with some parishioners the idea of arranging for greeters to be stationed at our church entrances. These volunteers would have a simple yet important job of offering a friendly welcome to all who come to worship with us. Greeters will also be valuable in providing information about the day's church activities, and generally putting people at ease, especially those who are visitors or those considering to register in our parish.

Once mass is ready to begin, the greeters would be free to join the congregation. The role of the greeter would be distinct from the ushers (who also have a share in the welcoming process) since their role is to conduct people into church, and if necessary, help them find a pew, while maintaining good order throughout the mass. We will have a sign-up list available soon. If you have any interest in being a greeter, or have suggestions or questions, please contact our parish office.

Our rose garden near the bell-tower shrine has fallen on hard times, having suffered two harsh winters and the undivided attention of our local herd of deer. I thought it was time to start over with our rosebed. I would like to make this an opportunity to memorialize someone you love. We will be planting 24 new roses in the beds flanking the statue of St. Therese of Liseiux. For a donation of $25.00 you can have a rose planted in memory of someone you love. We will publish these names in the bulletin. This is great time to renew the rose garden since later this month the Shrine of the Little Flower will celebrate its new designation as a minor basilica. (We will do our best to deter the deer too!)

]]>Mon, 20 Apr 2015 02:48:36 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-18-19-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-18-19-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 11-12, 2015The nine weeks before the Feast of St. Anthony of Padua is often called the “Big Novena.” People around the world ask the intercession of St. Anthony for their intentions. At Transfiguration Parish the “Big Novena” begins on Tuesday, April 14, after the noon Mass. Come and bring your intentions! You are welcome to receive a blessing with the relic of St. Anthony. We will make the next nine Tuesdays special for those with a devotion to St. Anthony.

Renewal of profession and world day of prayer for vocations. On Thursday of this week Franciscans are accustomed to make a spiritual renewal of vows. This practice usually takes place during evening prayer in our friary chapel. However, since we are in the year dedicated to Consecrated Life, Bro. Phil, Fr. Jeremy and myself will make our vow renewal during the noon mass. Our vows are made for life, but this yearly renewal is a way of giving thanks for the gift of a vocation, and an intercession that we be faithful to this gift.

Later in the month, the Catholic Church calls upon us to pray for vocations. Prayers for vocation will be a part of our weekend masses on April 25-26. When we pray that God will raise up new vocations we actually do something that clarifies our own vocation. Yes, each one of us has a calling from God. Many who read this have a firm sense of their personal vocation. On the other hand, each of us can discover new dimensions to our vocation. Fr. Joe Lang, a former parishioner who raised his family here many years ago, experienced a call to the priesthood after his wife Mary passed away. He celebrates 10 years of priesthood this Sunday at the National Shrine of the Little Flower where he is an associate pastor! Maybe someday we can have him come to our parish and talk about the mystery of our vocation...

]]>Tue, 14 Apr 2015 03:42:47 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-11-12-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-11-12-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 4-5, 2015The friars and staff of Transfiguration Parish wish all of you a very blessed Easter. I've missed singing the Gloria and the alleluias at Mass for the last forty days. For the next six weeks we will be uplifted by the New Testament witness to Christ's victory over death, followed by the solemn feast of Pentecost. I hope that the spiritual intensity that Lent always fosters will stay with us into the Easter season and beyond.

The second Sunday of Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday, reminds me that Pope Francis has set aside Dec. 8, 2015 to Nov. 20, 2016 as a Holy Year of Mercy. In the Pope's own words, "Dear brothers and sisters, I have often thought about how the Church might make clear its mission of being a witness to mercy. It is journey that begins with a spiritual conversion. For this reason, I have decided to call an extraordinary Jubilee that is to have the mercy of God at its center. It shall be a Holy Year of Mercy. We want to live this Year in the light of the Lord's words: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. (cf. Lk 6:36)

I am convinced that the whole Church will find in this Jubilee the joy needed to rediscover and make fruitful the mercy of God, with which all of us are called to give consolation to every man and woman of our time. From this moment, we entrust this Holy Year to the Mother of Mercy, that she might turn her gaze upon us and watch over our journey.”

]]>Mon, 06 Apr 2015 02:06:33 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-4-5-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-4-5-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 28-29, 2015The ChristLife program will take a breather while we enter into Holy Week and Easter. Participants from Discovering Christ will begin the section Following Christ on April 14th. The ChristLife team is thankful that our parish has been blessed by the all those who responded to this opportunity to deepen faith. Next year, we will offer the entirety of the program again, beginning in February.

On the Sunday after Easter, Fr. Jeremy will be begin a monthly Sunday morning session for people who want to know more about the Catholic faith and who may be interested in joining our RCIA process which will begin next fall. This session will take place after the 10:00am mass (11:15am) and is planned to last an hour. If you know anyone who has expressed interest in becoming Catholic, please tell them about the program, and tell Fr. Jeremy about their interest. The first session is scheduled for April 12th.

As you walked in procession today to honor Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, may you walk with Jesus each day of the Holy Week. I encourage you to take part in our parish liturgies on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and of course, on Easter Sunday. Check our Facebook page for a video invitation to these liturgies!

From Pope Francis: The Lord’s missionary mandate includes a call to growth in faith: “Teach them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Mt 28:20). Hence it is clear that that the first proclamation also calls for ongoing formation and maturation. Evangelization aims at a process of growth which entails taking seriously each person and God’s plan for his or her life. All of us need to grow in Christ. Evangelization should stimulate a desire for this growth, so that each of us can say wholeheartedly: “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Gal 2:20). [Par. 160, The Joy of the Gospel]

]]>Mon, 06 Apr 2015 02:06:08 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-28-29-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-28-29-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 21-22, 2015Next weekend is Palm Sunday. The masses will begin with an invitation for you to assemble in the gathering room for the blessing of palms, followed by the solemn procession into church. Last year we had many people who were willing to leave the pew and join in the blessing and procession. I encourage you to participate this year too.

Then we begin Holy Week, which leads us to the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday. I ask that you make a special effort to attend all of the special liturgies: Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil/Easter Sunday celebrations. Over the years, I have found these days spiritually renewing, and uplifting.

Soon you will see a St. Vincent de Paul donation bin in the parking lot east of Code Rd. You can drop off any used clothing or shoes at the bin. The Society will come by once a week to empty it, and our work crew will make sure that the area around it is kept tidy. Have you thought about joining our conference? This weekend someone from our conference will give a brief presentation on the work of the SVdP organization and explain how you can help.

From Pope Francis: We should not think, however, that the Gospel message must always be communicated by fixed formulations learned by heart or by specific words which express an absolutely invariable content. This communication takes place in so many different ways that it would be impossible to describe or catalogue them all, and God’s people, with all their many gestures and signs, are its collective subject . . . . This is always a slow process and at we can be overly fearful. But if we allow doubts and fears to dampen our courage, instead of being creative we will remain comfortable and make no progress whatsoever. [par. 129, The Joy of the Gospel]

]]>Sun, 22 Mar 2015 03:50:25 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-21-22-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-21-22-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 14-15, 2015I would like to update you on the progress of the ChristLife program which began six weeks ago. Our team (myself, Deacon Tom, Nancy Peterson and Al Brankiewicz) are very happy with how the program has taken root in our parish. Despite two weather-challenged evenings, attendance has been very steady, with the number of people exceeding everything we had hoped for. Last week's session had 94 members; our recent Saturday morning retreat, an important part of the ChristLife program, was attended by 75 people.

The coming Tuesday evening will be the final session for Discovering Christ. Then we take a break from ChristLife for several weeks so that our attention can focus on Holy Week and Easter. Then, on April 14th the second seven-week segment of the ChristLife program begins: Following Christ. I hope that all of our faithful attendees from Discovering Life will be able to continue their journey of spiritual renewal into this second phase. It is important to know that only those who have attended the first seven weeks will be prepared for the next seven sessions.

On Wednesday March 25 our parish hosts one of the vicariate reconciliation services at 7:00pm. You are specially invited, along with five other area parishes, to experience the healing forgiveness of Jesus. Visiting priests will come to help Fr. Jeremy and myself celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation.

From Pope Francis: The salvation which God offers us is the work of his mercy. No human efforts, however good they may be, can enable us to merit so great a gift. God, by his sheer grace, draws us to himself and makes us one with him. He sends his Spirit into our hearts to make us his children, transforming us and enabling us to respond to his love by our lives. The Church is sent by Jesus Christ as the sacrament of the salvation offered by God. Through her evangelizing activity, she cooperates as an instrument of that divine grace which works unceasingly and inscrutably. Benedict XVI put it nicely at the beginning of the Synod’s reflections: “It is important always to know that the first word, the true initiative, the true activity comes from God and only by inserting ourselves into the divine initiative, only begging for this divine initiative, shall we too be able to become – with him and in him – evangelizers”. This principle of the primacy of grace must be a beacon which constantly illuminates our reflections on evangelization. [par. 112]

]]>Sun, 22 Mar 2015 03:49:39 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-14-15-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-14-15-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 7-8, 2015The last question on the November mini-survey yield some helpful information about how the parish might best use social media to improve communications within and beyond the parish. I wanted to know how many make regular use of several of the well-known tools that are available: email, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and texting. No surprises here: email came out on top, with almost half of the respondents using email. We had only 40 who used the phone for texting, and a mere16 Facebook users. Twitter (1) and Instagram (2) came in last.

I'm not sure how to implement a viable email channel for parish communication. We rely heavily upon email at the pastoral council and commission level. I communicate widely with email on a personal level. One-fourth of the respondents to the survey do not use the internet to communicate, and others may not want to have their email on a distribution list. For now, we will continue to improve the parish website and Facebook pages, and rely upon the bulletin as our universal channel for communication. You can find us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/transfigurationsouthfield. Our website is http://www.transfigsfld.org

From The Joy of the Gospel: Lay people are, put simply, the vast majority of the people of God. The minority – ordained ministers – are at their service. There has been a growing awareness of the identity and mission of the laity in the Church. We can count on many lay persons, although still not nearly enough, who have a deeply-rooted sense of community and great fidelity to the tasks of charity, catechesis and the celebration of the faith. At the same time, a clear awareness of this responsibility of the laity, grounded in their baptism and confirmation, does not appear in the same way in all places. In some cases, it is because lay persons have not been given the formation needed to take on important responsibilities. In others, it is because in their particular Churches room has not been made for them to speak and to act, due to an excessive clericalism which keeps them away from decision-making. Even if many are now involved in the lay ministries, this involvement is not reflected in a greater penetration of Christian values in the social, political and economic sectors. It often remains tied to tasks within the Church, without a real commitment to applying the Gospel to the transformation of society. The formation of the laity and the evangelization of professional and intellectual life represent a significant pastoral challenge. [par. 102]

]]>Wed, 11 Mar 2015 02:13:47 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-7-8-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-7-8-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 28-March 1, 2015You are welcome to come and pray before the Blessed Sacrament this first Wednesday of the month, from after the noon mass until Benediction at 7:00pm. Adoration. Come for a half hour, or even longer and experience the peace that comes from resting in silence before Jesus. This opportunity for prayer is always available on the first Wednesday of each month, but the Lenten season might motivate you to attend.

This weekend we welcome the Little Sisters of the Poor from Toledo to make their annual appeal. The sisters run their network of homes primarily on the generosity of benefactors. I constantly hear how well the elderly poor are cared for by the Little Sisters. Thank you for your generosity to them.

On March 8, Lift Up Southfield, our local interfaith ministerial association, is sponsoring a talk by Dr. Salie on Islam and Free Speech: Religious Toleration in a Modern World. This evening event begins at 6:00pm with an Indian dinner, ($5.00) and will be held at Peace Lutheran Church on 17029 West 13 Mile in Southfield. Reservations are required, so please call our parish office to let us know how many are coming from Transfiguration Parish. Dr. Salie is the founder and director of the Islamic Studies program, and teaches Arabic at the University of Detroit Mercy. Fr. Jeremy and I hope to see many of you at this event.

From The Joy of the Gospel "Isolation . . . can find expression in a false autonomy which has no place for God. But in the realm of religion it can also take the form of a spiritual consumerism tailored to one’s own unhealthy individualism. The return to the sacred and the quest for spirituality which mark our own time are ambiguous phenomena. Today, our challenge is not so much atheism as the need to respond adequately to many people’s thirst for God, lest they try to satisfy it with alienating solutions or with a disembodied Jesus who demands nothing of us with regard to others. Unless these people find in the Church a spirituality which can offer healing and liberation, and fill them with life and peace, while at the same time summoning them to fraternal communion and missionary fruitfulness, they will end up by being taken in by solutions which neither make life truly human nor give glory to God." [89]

]]>Mon, 02 Mar 2015 03:08:20 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-28-march-1-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-28-march-1-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 21-22, 2015We are almost finished reviewing the November in-pew survey. This weekend I have a few words to say about #7, the question about singing. You were asked whether you a) sing, b) sing only the songs you like, c) don't sing, or d) can't sing. The majority of you sing! A resounding 375 responded by saying that you join in the singing.

I can see from the altar how many music books are in your hands, and I can hear from the altar the beautiful sound of many blended voices. Although the Lenten season calls for less singing, the mass is always made more reverent when the people join in the songs. By the way, visitors notice and comment on your readiness to open the hymnal and raise your voice in song.

It was good to visit with those of you who attended the first Lenten fish fry last Friday. Thanks to the Mens Club and the other volunteers to make this tradition available to our parishioners and our visitors.

From Pope Francis: " Meanwhile, the Gospel tells us constantly to run the risk of a face-to-face encounter with others, with their physical presence which challenges us, with their pain and their pleas, with their joy which infects us in our close and continuous interaction. True faith in the incarnate Son of God is inseparable from self-giving, from membership in the community, from service, from reconciliation with others. The Son of God, by becoming flesh, summoned us to the revolution of tenderness." [par. 88]

]]>Mon, 23 Feb 2015 03:07:30 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-21-22-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-21-22-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 14-15, 2015In just a few days the violet colors of Lent will accent the church as the season of Lent begins. The next six weeks will feature a more subdued liturgy (no singing of the Gloria, no final hymn). We will be nourished by scriptures which call us to repentance and new beginnings. Will pray that God's graces will interrupt the pattern of sin in our lives. Let us support one another as we surrender what is broken in our lives to the Lord.

Recently I became aware of the need to provide gluten-free hosts to parishioners who suffer from celiac disease. Parishes respond to this need in different ways, taking into account varying degrees of gluten sensitivity. Once we have determined our own procedures, you'll read about them in this column. In the meantime, please let me know if you can be helped with a gluten-free host.

The parish survey: Question #6 inquired about your appreciation of the word "evangelization." The responses contained a pleasant surprise for me. 191 of you are inspired by this word. A close second, 102 respondents, are intrigued. Both answers fall on the positive side of the scale. It shows that many of you are taking to heart this reawakening in the church. The other answers: 71 are puzzled, 47 are uncomfortable, and 37 are indifferent. Regardless of the response, the word is here to stay, and Catholics will be hearing more and more about the necessity for parishes to become centers of evangelization. I hope that the ChristLife program will nourish this activity in the years ahead.

Finally, some thoughts from Pope Francis: "The individualism of our postmodern and globalized era favours a lifestyle which weakens the development and stability of personal relationships and distorts family bonds. Pastoral activity needs to bring out more clearly the fact that our relationship with the Father demands and encourages a communion which heals, promotes and reinforces interpersonal bonds. In our world, especially in some countries, different forms of war and conflict are re-emerging, yet we Christians remain steadfast in our intention to respect others, to heal wounds, to build bridges, to strengthen relationships and to “bear one another’s burdens” (Gal 6:2). [par. 67]

]]>Tue, 17 Feb 2015 06:52:06 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-14-15-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-14-15-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 7-8, 2015A few weeks ago I shared with you a sample of the min-survey that many of you filled out last November. I would like to cover some more of the results. Question #4 asked about the most important task of the parish. 248 respondents said "worship", 102 said "serve others" and 52 "to educate. (51 responded by marking all three as equally important.) Your answers correspond to the actual numbers of those who assist the parish in worship and in serving others. For many of you, our weekend masses are your point of contact with the parish. I will continue to look for ways to make this brief amount of time as enriching as possible.

Question #5 helps Fr. Jeremy, Deacon Tom and me clarify how to put the right focus on the sermon or homily. Should we primarily inspire (212), teach (138), explain (45) or entertain (1)? This question drew the most multiple responses. (A total of 65 thought that a homily should both teach and inspire. The message is clear, and it does confirm what we are striving for in our preaching.

The pastoral council is using these results to create a pastoral plan for the parish. This plan will attempt to be an uncomplicated map of the next five years in our parish. The council and commissions have contributed their insights into this process as well. When the warm weather returns this spring, we will have something to share with you.

These words of Pope Francis can guide all our planning: "The Church is called to be the house of the Father, with doors always wide open. One concrete sign of such openness is that our church doors should always be open, so that if someone, moved by the Spirit, comes there looking for God, he or she will not find a closed door. There are other doors that should not be closed either. Everyone can share in some way in the life of the Church; everyone can be part of the community, nor should the doors of the sacraments be closed for simply any reason. This is especially true of the sacrament which is itself “the door”: baptism. The Eucharist, although it is the fullness of sacramental life, is not a prize for the perfect but a powerful medicine and nourishment for the weak. These convictions have pastoral consequences that we are called to consider with prudence and boldness. Frequently, we act as arbiters of grace rather than its facilitators. But the Church is not a tollhouse; it is the house of the Father, where there is a place for everyone, with all their problems." [par. 47]

Looking ahead: Lent begins on February 18th. Masses and the distribution of ashes will take place at the regular noon mass as well as a 7:00pm mass. The anointing of the sick will be offered on the last weekend of the month, Feb 28 and Mar 1, at the 4:30pm Saturday mass and the 10:00am Sunday mass.

]]>Mon, 09 Feb 2015 02:03:20 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-7-8-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-7-8-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 31-February 1, 2015This weekend marks a milestone for our parish Knights of Columbus council as it celebrates its 5th anniversary. We are truly blessed to have this group of dedicated men at the service of the church, our parish, and our community. Space in our bulletin is too limited to list everything that the K of C does, bet me give you a recent example.

Last weekend our council collected food for the Franciscan Outreach program at a local supermarket. This involved teams of four taking three-hour shifts at the store on Saturday and Sunday, and bringing home over 4500 pounds of donated groceries. I wanted the parish to hear from the Knights of Columbus on their anniversary, which is why you heard a short message about their presence in our parish at mass today. Even though our council is only five years old, it has made its mark in the Detroit area already. Men, have you considered becoming a Knight of Columbus?

Last week we had 35 registered for Christlife. As of January 27th, we now have 103! Our first session will begin this coming Tuesday. As I have frequently mentioned, your prayers are needed so that all participants will have a grace-filled experience. Thanks to those who have responded to our unexpected need for more table facilitators.

From Pope Francis: "A Church which 'goes forth' is a Church whose doors are open. Going out to others in order to reach the fringes of humanity does not mean rushing out aimlessly into the world. Often it is better simply to slow down, to put aside our eagerness in order to see and listen to others, to stop rushing from one thing to another and to remain with someone who has faltered along the way. At times we have to be like the father of the prodigal son, who always keeps his door open so that when the son returns, he can readily pass through it." [par. 46]

]]>Mon, 02 Feb 2015 02:37:22 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-31-february-1-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-31-february-1-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 24-25, 2015I was very gratified by the after-mass attendance at our ChristLife gatherings. Currently we have about 35 people registered for the program. Many good questions were asked and answered by those of you who came to view the video. We will be taking registrations up to February 1. The first session will begin on February 3rd.

Our newly-founded conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society is now up and running. The regular bi-monthly meeting times are now in the parish calendar, and the telephone number can be found in the bulletin, with our other parish directory numbers. The conference will gladly welcome anyone who wishes to be part of its ministry. Thanks to everyone who has worked so hard to bring it into being. in the months ahead, members will gain experience and work out necessary procedures, and then communicate them to the parish at large. Soon we will have a donation box in the large parking lot for used clothing.

At the end of the week we host our annual adult volunteer dinner. This event gives us the welcome opportunity to thank all those who contribute their time and effort to our parish ministries. All the friars look forward to spending a delightful evening with you.

Looking ahead: Next weekend, in anticipation of the feast of St. Blaise, we will have the blessing of throats after all the masses. On the weekend of February 7-8 the friars will host an open house. Come and see us in our native habitat. Ash Wednesday is just around the corner (February 18).

]]>Tue, 27 Jan 2015 01:57:11 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-24-25-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-24-25-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 17-18, 2015This weekend I will be speaking about the coming Christlife program at all the masses. Today's column is a "warm-up" for that sermon. I would like to begin by providing the broader context for offering the Christlife program.

At the request of the Archdiocese, our parish has faithfully recited the Prayer for a New Pentecost at every weekend mass, and we will continue to do so until we celebrate Pentecost early next summer. This prayer came about because the Catholic Church is experiencing a new awakening of the call to evangelize our world. The words of Pope Francis in "The Joy of the Gospel" give voice to this awakening.

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the first Pentecost was a free gift from God. The people who received that gift prepared themselves for it by gathering together in hope and prayer. Implementing the Christlife program will not "earn" our parish a renewed gift of the Spirit, but it will dispose our hearts to welcome that Gift anew.

The Catholic Church has succeeded in providing a strong institutional presence throughout the centuries. We have benefited from a strong framework of teaching and sacramental life. The fullness of faith, however, comes into being when the truths of the creed become living realities in our heart and compelling realities in our lives. It is my hope that Christlife will breathe a new spirit into the faith of our parish.

Once again, from Pope Francis: "I am aware that nowadays documents do not arouse the same interest as in the past and that they are quickly forgotten. Nevertheless, I want to emphasize that what I am trying to express here has a programmatic significance and important consequences. I hope that all communities will devote the necessary effort to advancing along the path of a pastoral and missionary conversion which cannot leave things as they presently are. “Mere administration” can no longer be enough. Throughout the world, let us be “permanently in a state of mission”.[par.22]

]]>Mon, 19 Jan 2015 03:33:26 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-17-18-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-17-18-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 11-12, 2015I have a confession to make: I still haven't nailed down my new year resolutions! I have proposed a few to myself, but I've not yet made out my final list. It seems that this year I'm waiting for divine inspiration...

Having said this, I would like to offer a resolution to you, as well as a way to fulfill the resolution. I urge you to add this resolution to your list: "This year, I resolve to take one step towards an encounter with Jesus Christ."

You probably know where I am going with this. Next month on February 3, our parish begins its first session of the Christlife program, Discovering Christ. This will involve a commitment to free up seven consecutive Tuesday evenings to attend these sessions. The rest is up to Jesus, and I know he will keep his word to be there when you follow through on your resolution. Next week I will describe in some more detail the what to expect at these meetings.

And now, a word from Pope Francis: "God’s word is unpredictable in its power. The Gospel speaks of a seed which, once sown, grows by itself, even as the farmer sleeps (Mk 4:26-29). The Church has to accept this unruly freedom of the word, which accomplishes what it wills in ways that surpass our calculations and ways of thinking." [par. 22]

]]>Mon, 12 Jan 2015 03:32:01 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-11-12-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-11-12-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJanuary 3-4, 2015The Antiques Road Show is one of my TV favorites. I am fascinated by the surprises that people experience when the experts describe the history and value of the various antiques brought in. I can easily imagine how eager the owners of these antiques are to share the discovery of hidden value with their family and friends, a value they were often completely unaware of.

The feast of the Epiphany tells the story of the magi who experience a similar discovery hidden in the Christ child. They are the first to behold the immeasurable beauty of God's plan for our salvation. The gifts they offer to Mary and Joseph cannot begin to honor the dignity and divine/human presence of the Son of God. No doubt they also went home and couldn't wait to share the excitement of their discovery.

Pope Francis has this meditation to offer us as we begin a new year:

"With this newness God is always able to renew our lives and our communities, and even if the Christian message has known periods of darkness and ecclesial weakness, it will never grow old. Jesus can also break through the dull categories with which we would enclose him and he constantly amazes us by his divine creativity. Whenever we make the effort to return to the source and to recover the original freshness of the Gospel, new avenues arise, new paths of creativity open up, with different forms of expression, more eloquent signs and words with new meaning for today’s world. Every form of authentic evangelization is always 'new'." The Joy of the Gospel, par. 11

]]>Mon, 05 Jan 2015 02:15:38 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-3-4-2015
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/january-3-4-2015Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 27-28, 2014The calendar year is coming to a close this week. On Thursday we ring in a new year with the celebration of Mary the Mother of God. Please join us at our vigil mass on Wednesday evening at 4:30pm, or at our 10:00am mass on Thursday. We will be enjoying the beauty of our Christmas decorations until January 11. Thanks to all who helped transform our lovely church into an even lovelier Christmas place of worship.

Have you given any thought to some New Year resolutions? I would like to suggest a resolution which will deepen and bring new life to your faith. In early February we will begin the Christlife program in our parish. Why not resolve to give this program a try? For seven consecutive Tuesdays, you will be invited to come together for a meal, followed by a few minutes of prayer. A video will come next on the theme of "Discovering Christ," and the final activity of each evening is a time to share your reflections on the video at the same table you shared the meal. If this is not the time for you to make this resolution, I have another to consider: a daily prayer for those who will take part this year in Christlife.

In the weeks ahead, I will end each column with a few sentences from Pope Francis' exhortation, "The Joy of the Gospel" Here is one quotation to pray over as 2014 comes to an end:

"God constantly renews his faithful ones, whatever their age: “They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not be faint” (Is 40:31). Christ is the “eternal Gospel” (Rev 14:6); he “is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb 13:8), yet his riches and beauty are inexhaustible. He is for ever young and a constant source of newness." (par. 11)

]]>Mon, 29 Dec 2014 02:20:26 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-27-28-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-27-28-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 20-21, 2014All of us at Transfiguration Friary wish you a very blessed Christmas. We friars feel very fortunate to be part of this parish community and to have a share in its many ministries. Thanks so much your expressions of Christmas joy this year!

The parish office is closed during the Christmas holidays, beginning on December 24th and reopening with normal hours on January 5th. Individual staff members will be in and out as needed, however. We will check our voice mails during the Christmas break.

Next Sunday we commemorate the feast of the Holy Family. I hope that families brought together by the Christmas break can come next weekend to celebrate at Mass Christ's gift of love for us. The Catholic Church has made family life a top priority these last few months, and I'm sure that Pope Francis will have a strong message to all families this year.

]]>Tue, 23 Dec 2014 01:23:11 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-20-21-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-20-21-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 13-14, 2014Do you remember taking the short survey last month? I am just beginning to sort through all the responses, all 480 of them. Not everyone completed the survey, so when I list the totals, the number does not always add up to 480.

To give you a sample of responses, the first questions regarding being Catholic and/or registered revealed 336 Catholic and registered, 130 Catholic but not registered, and 13 non-Catholics attending mass that weekend. According to the survey results, women outnumbered men on the weekend of the survey: 271 to 198. There is more to come. Our staff discussed some of the preliminary numbers last week. All agreed that the information will be helpful for pastoral planning.

An information meeting for the Christlife faith renewal program will be held on this coming Monday evening at 7:00pm in the Duns Scotus meeting room. Several indicated some interest in the program through our fall Time and Talent survey. This meeting is for them, and for anyone else who would like to find out more about Christlife.

Don't forget our parish/vicariate Reconciliation service this Wednesday evening at 7:00pm. We will have a second priest helping out at the usual Tuesday and Saturday confession schedule, leading up to Christmas. The last opportunity to receive this sacrament before Christmas will be December 23, beginning at 10:30am.

]]>Mon, 15 Dec 2014 03:20:32 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-13-14-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-13-14-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMDecember 6-7, 2014We are happy to welcome Fr. Joe Hund, OFM to Transfiguration Friary in mid-December. He has finished a mission assignment in Namibia and will be taking a Sabbatical, and living here during this time. In June he will become pastor at our parish in Lafayette, LA. In the meantime Fr. Joe will attend various programs, and so be in and out for several months.

We are happy to welcome Bro. Eric back from Montreal. He would have returned earlier, but the blizzard in Buffalo delayed the mail delivery of his visa. Lets give him a few days to adjust from speaking French to speaking English again! He is eager to rejoin us and continue his work in the parish.

The final organizational meeting for our new St. Vincent de Paul conference takes place this Wednesday evening. It is not to late join. Members will receive training on procedures that are followed in helping the needy. The conference goes active in January.

Monday, December 8 is the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, a holy day of obligation. In addition to our regular noon mass, we have mass at 7:00pm. Our Advent parish reconciliation will take place on the 17th of December. It begins at 7:00pm. We join with La Sallette, Our Lady of the Albanians, and with Our Mother of Perpetual Help parish. Priests from these parishes are invited to help us hear confessions.

I've become aware recently of someone in our parish who needs gluten-free hosts for communinion. I am working out a way to provide this special kind of host for those with celiac disease. If you suffer from this condition, please let me know. I will explain to the parish soon how we will accomodate your needs.

]]>Mon, 08 Dec 2014 03:33:41 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-6-7-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/december-6-7-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 29-30, 2014The season of Advent begins today. The tone of our worship changes to hope and anticipation. I hope that we can all drink deeply of this beautiful season. The struggle to find outward support for our inner spiritual journey has already begun, of course. To survive the incessant shopping ads we see on TV now, we must make the extra effort to focus on the message of hope. We won't sing the Gloria during Advent, a signal that this season calls us to simplify and slim down our life.

Let me encourage you again to attend our Advent Taize service this Sunday evening at 6pm in the church. This is the perfect night to replace that annoying Christmas jingle with a memorable and singable melody more fitting for the Advent season. Come and begin the Advent season in uplifting prayer. Thanks to Steve and our choir for the extra practices they have done!

Something special began on November 29th. The Catholic Church has dedicated the next twelve months as a Year of consecrated life. Activities will focus on sharing experiences of prayer, service and community life with those living a consecrated life, those who have taken the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, and who live in community with one another. Fr. Jeremy will write a monthly column for our bulletin on religious life too.

Looking ahead: a week from this Monday is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. It is a holy day of obligation. We will have our regular noon mass (likely to be very crowded, as well as a 7pm evening mass.

]]>Mon, 01 Dec 2014 02:21:03 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-29-30-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-29-30-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 22-23, 2014I've set aside this weekend to give you a year-end summary of our parish. As I talk, I would appreciate very much if you would fill in the quick survey that you will find in the pew. The survey will make you use the pencil only seven times. It is completely anonymous, and it requires only one answer per question. Although the questions may seem random, the composite answers will help me and our parish staff to use the time we have together more effectively. Also, the results will give me several future bulletin topics!

The feast of Christ the King reminds us of the all things must come to an end. There will be no more episodes, no more "to be continued..." This is a hard but necessary reminder to us who live in a society which eagerly awaits the next model, the next installment, the next upgrade. Those who believe in Jesus do not become gloomy, however. We have hope that the grace of God will prevail over our distracted hearts. Let us see this feast as a new beginning and a rededication of our time in this world "so that God may be all in all."

]]>Mon, 24 Nov 2014 01:28:27 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-22-23-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-22-23-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 15-16, 2014Next weekend concludes the liturgical year of the church with the feast of Christ the King. The readings describe how human history will end in judgment. St. Paul shares his glimpse of the end in our second reading: "Then comes the end, when he hands over the kingdom to his God and Father, when he has destroyed every sovereignty and every authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. When everything is subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to the one who subjected everything to him, so that God may be all in all."

This weekend is a good time to reflect upon our life, individually and as a parish. How prepared am I to be handed over to the Father? In the past year, have I let God's grace strengthen my faith, hope and love? Is the joy of the Gospel more firmly rooted in my heart?

I will be speaking at all the masses next weekend to offer some reflections on how I've experienced our faith community at Transfiguration Parish. I believe it is helpful to step back and consider objectively as possible the goodness of our community, as well as the challenges that we face in the years to come. Please make an extra effort to attend next weekend.

The Church celebrates the end of all things in a spirit of hope, and a week later we begin a new spiritual journey with the first Sunday of Advent on November 30th. I urge all of you to attend our annual Taize prayer service that Sunday evening at 6:00pm. This evening service is the perfect antidote to the commercial noise that just gets louder at this time of year!

]]>Mon, 17 Nov 2014 01:15:42 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-15-16-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-15-16-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 8-9, 2014This weekend we welcome Friar Colin King from Chicago. He is one of our friars in formation (training) that you can see on the vocation poster in the gathering room. He is here to seek your help for a student mission trip to Jamaica for a group of Chicago area college students. Read more about it in the bulletin insert. Colin spent a year at our mission in Negril, Jamaica, and he will have many personal experiences to share. I hope you can help Colin this weekend. And we can always pray that a new Franciscan vocation will emerge from this mission trip!

This Wednesday will be the third meeting of our new St. Vincent de Paul conference. If you were unable to attend the prior meetings, you are still very welcome to join this lively group at 7pm in the Duns Scotus room. Thanks for all who have supported this project by your presence at earlier meetings. I know that our parish will be blessed through a new opportunity to serve the poor.

Also coming this week is a series on Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation, The Joy of the Gospel. You may have heard Fr. Jeremy and me refer to this document in our preaching. Having a good understanding of our Pope's spiritual foundations will go a long way to promote a healthy balance in the debates that the Synod on the Family have kindled. Mike Dillon will lead the four week series on this document, beginning this Thursday, November 13th. It will run weekly, except for Thanksgiving day, for four weeks.

The annual ecumenical Thanksgiving service takes place on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, November 23, at the Covenant Presbyterian Church on 10 Mile Rd, just past Lahser Rd. The service begins at 7pm. Singers are welcome to join the interfaith choir.

]]>Mon, 10 Nov 2014 01:22:46 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-8-9-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-8-9-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMNovember 2-3, 2014This weekend we welcome new parishioners! Come and greet them at the reception after the 10:00 Mass. Any time, give a smile and warm greeting to anyone you have not met.

We also remember and pray for our beloved dead. November 1 was All Saints—“the great multitude which no one could count from every nation, race, people and tongue.” They are the canonized saints but also we honor all the everyday loving people who received no special recognition here but are now in heaven. November 2 is All Souls’ Day, those assured of heaven but now being purified. They can pray for us and we can help them with our prayers. We “pilgrims on earth” are only one part of the Communion of Saints.

National Vocation Awareness Week is November 2-8. Pope Francis and the U.S. bishops urge us to build in our parish a culture of vocations. “The fervor of the community,” the Pope says, “can awaken in the young a desire to consecrate themselves completely to God and to the preaching of the Gospel” as a priest, deacon, Sister or Brother. We know today the decision to be a religious or priest is made not only in the early 20’s but sometimes in the 30’s or 40’s. Ask others if they have every thought of being a Brother or Sister, deacon or priest. This Wednesday afternoon we have adoration. Spend some time with our Eucharistic Lord and pray for vocations.Next weekend Brother Colin King, OFM, will speak on behalf of “Jamaica With Friars” mission program. Friars accompany students from the Catholic Newman Center at the University of Illinois at Chicago to share in the mission work of the Franciscans in Jamaica. The young adults help the poor and encourage the young.

I write this column while Fr. Bill is in Rome. By the time you read it, he’ll be home. Peace!

]]>Mon, 03 Nov 2014 02:04:09 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-2-3-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/november-2-3-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 25-26, 2014First of all, a big thank-you goes out to the many volunteers who helped our parish host the South Oakland Shelter last week. This effort creates the largest number of volunteer hours of anything we do as a parish. It is an around-the-clock witness of Christian love. I want to thank especially Tim and Nancy Cahoon for their personal commitment to SOS. You've helped us all become better servants of the disadvantaged.

I will be in Rome this coming week, attending a meeting of Franciscans involved in pastoral education. I will be back in time for the weekend masses, which will kick off a special week of prayer for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. Since 1972 the church has set aside a full week of the year as National Vocation Awareness Week. Previously it was on the Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord (the end of the Christmas season.) It was moved this year to the first week of November.

With elections coming up soon, I encourage you to visit the Michigan Catholic Conference website for information on the candidates' positions on important moral issues. Follow this link: http://www.micatholic.org/advocacy/2014-election/

]]>Mon, 03 Nov 2014 02:03:23 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-25-26-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-25-26-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 18-19, 2014Today is Mission Sunday. There will be a second collection for the foreign missions. Thank you, Bro. Phil, for sharing your 47 years of mission experience at the masses last weekend. You helped us all appreciate the sacrifices made by missionaries around the world. I hope we can all pray for the missions and support them financially through this collection.

Thanks to all the generous volunteers who made our SOS guests feel right at home, from the very moment they stepped through the door last Sunday. Each night they enjoyed a meal provided by one of the groups in the parish. I'm glad we can be part of such a creative ministry.

The next planning meeting for the St. Vincent de Paul Society takes place this coming Wednesday evening at 7:00pm in the Duns Scotus room. I was happy to see so many attend the first meeting two weeks ago. If you had signed up but were unable to attend that meeting, please don't hesitate to come to this one. Paul Zbtowski, who spoke at the masses two weeks ago, will be facilitating this meeting. I'm sure we'll be ready to commit to forming a St. Vincent de Paul conference.

I will be attending a meeting of the friars involved in local leadership in Indianapolis from the 21-23rd of October. I will be back in time to join many of you this Friday evening at our annual spaghetti dinner which benefits our Franciscan Outreach program. See the bulletin for more details.

]]>Mon, 20 Oct 2014 02:53:51 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-18-19-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-18-19-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 11-12, 2014Thank you for your generous response to our Time and Talent appeal last weekend. Thanks also to the Mens Club for providing the breakfast/brunch on Sunday morning. I hope you made some new friends while enjoying the delicious food. The Discipleship Commission will be sorting through the names of all who signed up on the Time and Talent forms. You will be hearing soon from the commission or organization that you expressed interest in. I was very happy that 25 parishioners want to know more about the St. Vincent de Paul Society. I will keep you informed as we move towards establishing a conference at Transfiguration Parish.

Some months ago we upgraded the parish web into a more useful source of information. At the time we also began planning to implement on-line giving. The new website enables this service for us. We have been testing the sign-in process and on October 18-19 you will be able to begin using this service. The giving service is called WeShare and it is offered through LPi, the same company which produces our weekly bulletin. LPi has been offering WeShare for four years and currently has 650 parishes enrolled in the program.

With WeShare, you can set up a recurring weekly or monthly transaction using your checking, savings, or credit card account. You can decide how much to give to any collection, and you are able to make changes at any time, day or night. If you would like to enroll in Online Giving, please visit our website: www.transfigsfld.org. Our parish office will be happy to answer any questions you may have. (248-356-8787) Your feedback along the way will be of great help too!

]]>Mon, 13 Oct 2014 04:33:01 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-11-12-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-11-12-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMOctober 4-5, 2014Our turn to provide for the homeless through the South Oakland Shelter (SOS) will soon be upon us. Please take a moment to see what openings still need your help. The table is in the gathering room. As of this writing, I counted 47 lines looking for your name. I'm sure it will be less by the time you read this.

This Monday evening at 7:00pm we will hold an hour of prayer, followed by a Mass for the unborn. There are so many ways to give witness to the sanctity of life. Prayer is always the place to begin. Come join us for this special event. We will be taking up a collection of baby articles for Mothers and Unborn Baby Care, which is right here in Southfield. Consider signing up for the 40 Days for Life. The schedule book is in the gathering area.

Bro. Eric who is with us for a year of his Franciscan training has encountered a difficulty with his immigration status in regards to his student visa. He is now in Montreal waiting for his situation to be straightened out. Please pray that the matter is handled quickly. We hope he will be able to rejoin our community soon. His email is: enjs33@yahoo.com

]]>Mon, 06 Oct 2014 04:39:03 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-4-5-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/october-4-5-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSept 27-28Franciscans around the world are looking forward to celebrating the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi on October 4th. This year the feast falls on a Saturday, and we will have a morning mass at 8:00am as part of our parish observance. I hope that many of you will choose to celebrate this day with us. Pet blessings have become popular on October 4 too, and like last year, we will have a short prayer service in the grotto prayer garden at 11:00am which concludes with a blessings of family pets.

A third opportunity to celebrate St. Francis will take place the night of Friday, October 3rd. A special prayer service called the Transitus (or "passing") of St. Francis will take place at 7:30pm in the church. Every other year we alternate with the Franciscan Felician sisters in hosting this prayer service. We've sent invitations to all the other area Franciscan communities too. One of my favorite quotations from St. Francis comes from his final hours: "Brothers, up to now we have done nothing. Let us begin now to do good." He was always about beginning again, even on his deathbed.

This weekend is set aside for two important causes: the fostering of time and talent giving within our parish, and the Catholic Church's renewal of its commitment to respect life at every stage. During this coming week, please be praying over how you can make our parish better by being involved in one of its many activities. Pray also for the personal guidance to give witness to the gift of life. Each of us is a masterpiece of God's creation! This is the national theme for Respect Life activities for this year.

]]>Sat, 04 Oct 2014 01:29:08 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/sept-27-28
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/sept-27-28Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSept 20-21, 2014St. Vincent de Paul part 2Last week I mentioned that a representative of the St. Vincent de Paul Society is coming to speak at all the masses on our Time And Talent weekend (Oct 4-5). Let me offer some more background on the organization to make the presentation more useful for you. As you can see in the first part of their mission statement The mission of the society has two dimensions: service to the poor, and growth in personal holiness: "Inspired by Gospel values, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a Catholic lay organization, leads women and men to join together to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to those who are needy and suffering in the tradition of its founder, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, and patron, St. Vincent de Paul."

Each local group, or conference, is associated with a parish and is dedicated to the poor who are found within the parish boundaries. Meetings include organizing service for the poor, but also time to reflect on how this service is shaping the spiritual journey of its members. Conferences assist one another across a region to coordinate its ministries for the poor.

Our parish does a wonderful job through our Franciscan Outreach to distribute food to anyone who comes to our doors. The St. Vincent de Paul Society would be able to add further services to those within our parish boundaries. Many of these requests originating in Southfield have in the past been handled by our neighboring conferences. There are many questions still to be answered, but the main question is whether we have enough parishioners to maintain our current outreach as well as a new St. Vincent de Paul conference. I'm sure that our speaker will be addressing this and any other questions you may have on October 4 and 5.

This Monday evening we will have a special mass to launch the local 40 Days for Life event at 7pm. Please come and support this movement. The 40 days are a time for peaceful and prayerful witness to the sanctity of life. More information about the 40 Days for Life movement can be found on this website: http://40daysforlife.com/local-campaigns/southfield/

]]>Mon, 22 Sep 2014 03:29:40 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/sept-20-21-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/sept-20-21-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSept 13-14, 2014Who taught the Catholic faith to you? I wonder how many of us remember the names of the religious sisters, volunteer catechists, RCIA staff and others who worked with your parents to bring you to understand and love our faith? Their names may have faded from our memory, but the influence of their work lives on. Next Sunday is set aside in parishes around the country to recognize the important work of these people in the ministry of religious education, especially for our young people. On Catechetical Sunday we recognize and call God's blessing upon these women and men who carry on this important work.

Our programs tend to be most visible in the sacramental preparations for First Communion and Confirmation. I want to emphasize, however, that the years leading up to these two sacraments are also important to the minds and hearts of our children. Please make sure that you are not a stranger to our programs after First Communion!

Looking ahead: the first weekend of October features two very important themes for our parish: Right to Life Sunday, and Time and Talent. (We need more weekends in the year!) A representative from the St. Vincent de Paul Society will be speaking at all the masses to explain the work of this organization. For over a year I've had discussions with the Christian Service Commission and the Pastoral Council about establishing a conference of SVDP in our parish. We already have a very active and effective Franciscan Outreach which provides food assistance to the poor in our area. The speaker will explain how The St. Vincent de Paul Society can address other areas of need in Southfield. I will have some more to say about this next weekend.

Finally, five young men who have begun their Franciscan training will be visiting us on Monday to Wednesday. They are touring the places where we friars live and work. They will also visit St. Aloysius downtown, as well as our friary in Berkeley. You will see them at mass on Tuesday and Wednesday, and also helping out with our Franciscan Outreach on Wednesday.

]]>Mon, 15 Sep 2014 03:14:43 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/sept-13-14-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/sept-13-14-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMSept 6-7, 2014We have resumed our parish RCIA program on Sunday mornings. The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) provides a place for those who are being drawn by the Spirit to become Catholic. Last year we had three young people who joined our faith through the RCIA. We have already had several people express interest in becoming Catholic this year. If you know someone who would like to find out more about the Catholic Church, it is not to late to let Mike Dillon know by phone (248-569-4304) or email (mjdillon@comcast.net). We have been including information about the RCIA for several weeks in the bulletin.

Save the Date! Early October will be busy around the parish, as it is the time we celebrate St. Francis' feastday on October 4th. This year we host a special prayer service which commemorates the death of St. Francis. The service is called the Transitus, and it always occurs on the eve of the feast. Come join many local men and women Franciscans at 7:30pm in our church. We will have a mass on Saturday morning at 8am to celebrate the feastday. At 11am we will bless family pets in the prayer garden.

]]>Sun, 31 Aug 2014 05:20:50 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/sept-6-7-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/sept-6-7-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 23-24, 2014Last week's bulletin contained an appeal for religious ed teachers. I am sure that the Lord has blessed our parish with people who have the gifts to assist us in this ministry. Please pray at least that the right people with these gifts will be inspired to step forward and become involved with our religious education program.

Last fall 238 (of 1,534) parish members took part in the Archdiocesan-wide survey. Just recently all the parishes received the report and statistics broken down by parish. The questions covered a wide range of concerns. Included with the survey report are membership statistics too. These make interesting reading! The pastoral council will be studying these numbers since such information will certainly affect our parish planning. On August 22, you will be able to access this same information on the AOD website.

]]>Mon, 25 Aug 2014 02:52:09 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-23-24-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-23-24-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 16-17, 2014First of all, I am happy to be back here after a relaxing vacation and renewing retreat. Fr. Jeremy is now on his vacation, recovering from all the extra duties that he took on while I was gone. Fr. Bob Weakley OFM, former pastor, enjoyed coming back to lend a hand.

I returned in time to enjoy our annual parish picnic last Sunday. Thanks to our staff and all the volunteers who made it run so smoothly. We closed the picnic with a moment of prayer and blessing for the new outdoor Stations of the Cross. Alex Mayes designed the stations and coordinated those who worked to put them in place. Thank you Alex, and members of the K of C and the Mens Club, and all others who pitched in to help Alex. Soon we hope to celebrate his Eagle rank in the Boy Scouts! All are welcome to pray the stations. They are clearly marked at the north end of the property.

This year we are making an extra effort to increase our parish participation in the Catholic Services Appeal. We have pledges towards 67% of our goal, which is $46,027.00. If you haven't turned in your pledge card yet, you will be receiving a telephone call from Milito Associates, a respected telephone fund raising service. I hope that a final effort on our part will move us closer to our goal (which, by the way, is lower than last year.)

]]>Mon, 18 Aug 2014 03:16:12 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-16-17-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-16-17-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 9-10, 2014Fr. Bill is back! We rejoice! He will be writing next week’s column.Thanks for your response to “Our Doors Are Open. Welcome!” Continue to be alert to helping anyone who may be interested. It might be helpful to review why some people leave and why some come back.People give a variety of reasons. Some say they just drifted away, maybe when in college or when they left home. Others say when they moved to a different city, they didn’t start going to a new parish. For others it was issues involved with marriage, divorce or remarriage; being hurt by a priest, Sister, or lay staff person; disagreeing with Church teaching; not feeling spiritually fed by Mass or homilies; abortion or post abortion; losing interest in organized religion; no longer believing in God.Returning to Church may be easy for some. For others who were deeply hurt or have a lot of questions a returning Catholic group may be helpful. In a group they will receive support from others and from hearing their stories.People share many reasons why they returned to Church: miss the community and friends in the parish; want to give their children good example and be able to answer their questions about the Church; need to update their knowledge because their religious education was poor; want to receive Communion or go to Confession; want to have their marriage blessed by the Church; getting older and want to get right with God.We know the Holy Spirit is working within each person. The Spirit is the mover of hearts. Our prayers for those away from Church are also important. Let anyone who is interested know that at Transfiguration our doors are always open. Fr. Bill and I, Deacon Tom and Mike Dillon are always willing to listen. On our website transfigsfld.com we will be putting more information. Peace! Fr. Jeremy[frjeremyh@gmail.com , mjdillon@comcast.net]]]>Wed, 13 Aug 2014 03:34:14 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-9-10-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-9-10-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMAugust 2-3, 2014Thanks for your generous support of Missionary Fr. Noel O’Meara, CSSp. You contributed more than $3,200, enough to buy seven camels which, as Fr. Noel predicted, will soon be seen crossing the desert with flags on their hump saying, “Transfiguration.”In last week’s bulletin I urged you to be alert to inviting home those who have left us for a while. I promised some ideas on how as a parish we might do that. First, some guiding principles: We are inviting people who may be interested in returning to the Sacraments. We are not trying to persuade anyone to switch parishes. ”Always have your answer ready for people who ask you the reason for the hope that you have,” says the First Letter of Peter (3:15), “but give it with courtesy and respect….” We are not judging others or intruding in their lives. If opportunities arise, we invite. Pope Francis says, “An evangelizer must never look like someone who has just come back from a funeral.” Our witness is to be people of joy!Here are some possible approaches:1. A good conversation opener can be something that Pope Francis says or does. He says the first step is “personal dialogue, when the other person speaks and shares his or her joys, hopes and concerns for loved ones….”

2. Be a good PR person for your faith and parish. When appropriate mention how important your faith is to you or something that impresses you at Transfiguration: the prayerfulness of the liturgies and the church, the choir, Communion to nursing homes weekly, friendliness, outreach to the needy in many different ways.

3. If someone mentions a Catholic relative who is sick or homebound, ask if the person would like to receive Communion and/or the Sacrament of the Sick. Offer to contact a priest.

4. Invite a new neighbor to come to Mass with you or the Scripture classes or the Men’s Club or Willing Hands & Prayerful Hearts Knitting Group or to help at Francis Outreach or the Fish Fry or any Christian Service project.

5. If you know someone who used to come to Mass, tell them that you miss them. No pressure.

If you have returned to the church after being away for a while, share your story with me and why you decided to return. Without using your name, I can use your experience to invite others. Your suggestions are welcome! [frjeremyh@gmail.com, mjdillion@comcast.net]

]]>Wed, 13 Aug 2014 03:33:29 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-2-3-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/august-2-3-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJuly 26-27, 2014From Fr. Jeremy:Our beloved pastor Fr. Bill asked me to write his bulletin message while he is on a well-deserved vacation and retreat. He also suggested I might introduce “Our Doors Are Open Welcome” initiative for returning Catholics and anyone interested in becoming Catholic.Don’t we all have friends and relatives who no longer come to Mass? Studies show that about one out of three Americans raised Catholic are no longer practicing. How many of these are in Southfield? God touches hearts but through us reaches out to others.Why now? Pope Francis gives us a special opportunity. Everybody sees him in the media. People of all faiths or none take new hope. He reaches out to everyone. His style is to listen before rushing to judgment. Regarding those who no longer come to Mass he says: Some have “deep sincere faith, expressing it in different ways.” Of others he says they may be “quietly seeking God.”But Pope Francis wants action. “We cannot leave things as they presently are.” We must “go out to others, seek those who have fallen away.”Here at Transfiguration how can we reach out to returning Catholic and to anyone who is interested in becoming a Catholic? I welcome your ideas, suggestions and stories. I’ll suggest some possible approaches in the next two bulletins and on our website Transfigsfld. com. If there is enough interest, we’ll have a “Returning Catholic” group like some other parishes. My email is frjeremyh@gmail.com and our RCIA director Mike Dillon’s is mjdillon@comcast.net.Note that we are having a special Mass for the Franciscan feast of the Portiuncula on Saturday, August 2 at 8:00 a.m. At that little chapel dedicated to Mary is the cradle of the Franciscan movement. It is precious to Secular Franciscans, to Sisters and Brother. The first followers of St. Francis came to the Portiuncula, here St. Clare was received, and here St. Francis died. All are welcome for the Mass and to gain the Portiuncula Indulgence. There’s more information in this bulletin and our website Transfigsfld.org. Peace!

Thank you for being generous to the mission appeal that Fr. Noel O'Meara is preaching this weekend. You'll find a description of the missions elsewhere in the bulletin.

I asked Bro. Eric to say a few words about himself in the bulletin this weekend:

Hello, my name is Br. Eric Seguin. I am a simply professed friar and am spending this entire year as a part of my Franciscan formation at Transfiguration Friary and Parish. I am originally from Canada, and I am the youngest of 10 children. Before becoming a Friar I worked in the hospitality industry. I have a degree in culinary management and hotel and restaurant management.

After working 15 years in different hotels, I felt that something was missing in my life. I first discerned a possible vocation with my diocese in Canada. My calling to become a friar happened while I was on a silent retreat. One day during my stay I stumbled upon a book on St Francis in the retreat house library. This book profoundly struck me profoundly as it showed Francis as a humble, simple man wanting to help others. This really spoke to me and made me begin my discernment with the Franciscans. I contacted the friars of St John the Baptist province in Cincinnati. I spoke to Fr. Do Miller, the vocation director, and then visited the friars in September 2009. I began my postulancy in July 2010.

This year I am hoping to be involved in the parish life, helping in different ministries that your parish offers. I am truly blessed to be able to spend a year here at Transfiguration I look forward to working with many of you and getting to know you over the months ahead.

]]>Wed, 16 Jul 2014 05:09:38 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-19-20-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-19-20-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJuly 12-13, 2014I will be going on vacation next week, from July 20 to August 3, then on retreat until August 8. Fr. Jeremy will be writing this column for the next couple of weeks.

On the weekend of July 20-21 the parish hosts the annual mission speaker. This year we have a priest from Ireland coming to us, Fr. Noel O'Meara. He belongs to the Spiritan community. He has roots in the Detroit area, and he will be speaking about his community's missions in Africa. Please welcome him and be as generous as you can to the missions.

Fr. John Gagala will be celebrating his 80th birthday on July 22nd! The mass intention on that day is for him. He is recovering from his hip surgery. He would appreciate your prayers as his recovery continues.

High School grads going to college: your university or college will likely have a Newman Chapel on campus where you can continue to practice your faith. Let me know where you are attending, and I can help you find the Newman ministry center if there is one. We want to keep in touch with you, so check in to our website from time to time, or let us know how to contact you via email or by other means.

If you did not purchase any prints from Lifetouch (the company producing our new pictorial directory), you can pick up your free copy of your portrait after masses on July 19th and 20th. Check with Paula in the gathering area.

]]>Wed, 16 Jul 2014 05:07:53 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-12-13-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-12-13-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJuly 5-6, 2014Do you know anyone who is interested in reconnecting with the Catholic Church? Perhaps you have a neighbor, or family member who is looking for a way to become active again. Fr. Jeremy shared with the pastoral council at the June meeting his plans to begin sessions to help Catholics who wish to return. I asked Fr. Jeremy to take over this column for a couple weeks in late July to talk about this project.

You may have noticed recently in the bulletin that the RCIA will resume meetings after Labor Day. These sessions are primarily intended for people who are not yet baptized, or are baptized but not Catholic. You can help by encouraging people to explore what the Catholic Church teaches and offers to those seeking something more in their lives.

Be sure to sign up your young children (or grandchildren) for our summer Vacation Bible School. There will be opportunities at the masses this weekend to register.

]]>Mon, 07 Jul 2014 02:24:21 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-5-6-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/july-5-6-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 28-29, 2014A year ago, I arrived to begin my ministry with you as your pastor. The last twelve months have gone by quickly. I wanted to spend this first year in getting to know you, experiencing the events that have become part of your traditions, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I appreciate so much living and working with Bro. Phil and Fr. Jeremy. I could not ask for a better setting for fraternal living and ministry.

During these months of listening and observing, I was influenced by Pope Francis' Church priorities, especially those in his apostolic exhortation, "The Joy of the Gospel." He is urging the Church to regain its missionary roots and become comfortable again proclaiming the gospel to our world.

Last week the Pastoral Council supported my request that our parish begin a special renewal program called Christlife which is being promoted by the Archdiocese. This program helps parishes form small groups with a specific focus on three topics: Discovering Christ, Following Christ, Sharing Christ. There is a lot of work to be done before we can actually implement it. I think this program has great potential for our parish, and I will be continuing to speak about it in the weeks ahead.

]]>Mon, 30 Jun 2014 03:09:18 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-28-29-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-28-29-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 21-22, 2014Next Sunday we celebrate Saints Peter and Paul, a day fixed to June 29th. When June 29th falls on Sunday, it replaces the normal Sunday of Ordinary Time. The recent canonizations of John XXIII and John Paul II come to mind as we celebrate the feast of the first pope St. Peter and fellow missionary/martyr, St. Paul. Both fearlessly preached faith in Jesus and ended their lives as martyrs. Both were equipped by the Holy Spirit to be leaders of the first generation of disciples.

Thanks to the kindness of a parishioner, you will find in the pews commemorative holy cards for John XXIII and John Paul II. Please take one. And continue to pray for our current Pope Francis.

Friar Eric Sequin will be joining us for the weekend liturgies next week. He will be at all the masses to meet you. Friar Eric begins a year of residence with us to experience life and ministry in a regular friary setting. And finally, Fr. Jeremy's retreat is actually this week, not last week as I mentioned in the previous bulletin. Mea culpa...

]]>Tue, 24 Jun 2014 03:49:54 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-21-22-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-21-22-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 14-15, 2014Fathers, this day is for you. May God always give you a thankful heart for the awesome privilege of fatherhood. For Jesus, every day was his Father's day. Jesus taught his disciples to pray to God by calling God our Father.

I am happy to report at the parish has reached 53% of its Catholic Services Appeal (CSA) goal of $46,027.00 and we have done so with the participation of about 26% of the parish. If you are not part of that 26%, please take a moment to make your donation. I am keeping my eye on the level of participation in the parish. I would certainly like to see this level increase over previous years. Later in the summer there will be a further attempt made to contact you about the CSA.

I am also happy to report that the parish pictorial directory will be the best one yet! Many parishioners will be included in this milestone publication. One helpful benefit of doing the pictorial has been the registration of some families who thought they were already registered. We have helped these families register, and I want to emphasize how important it is that you do register if you indeed consider Transfiguration to be your parish.

Please keep Fr. Jeremy in your prayers while he is on retreat the week of June 23-27th. And thanks once again for all those who were willing to be part of our discernment for parish leadership on our Pastoral Council and commissions!

]]>Mon, 16 Jun 2014 04:28:04 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-14-15-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-14-15-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMJune 7-8, 2014This weekend we celebrate the great feast of Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the small group of faithful disciples. Over the centuries, the Holy Spirit has come with power into the lives of individuals and communities to guide, strengthen and comfort us on our way to the kingdom. Today we seek to be renewed in the Holy Spirit as we select new members for the Pastoral Council and its four commissions.

Did you read the long article in the Detroit Free Press about the recently-released survey results from the Archdiocese of Detroit. The reason for the survey was expressed in these words to Catholics in the Archdiocese: "The archdiocese’s primary goal in engaging parishioners in this survey has been to inspire you to renew your involvement in your faith and parish." The survey generated more information than I can cover here. Please check the Archdiocesean website www.aod.org for the full report of the "Perceptions of the Faithful" survey. As I mentioned last week, the results for individual parishes are still being processed. By August, we will receive a report based on the results given only by our own parishioners.

In a couple weeks the offering envelopes will be arriving in your mailbox. The first envelope in the packet is labeled CSA2014. You will only see it once a year, as a reminder notice of the Catholic Services Appeal. If you've already made your donation this year, use it as a bookmark. If you have yet to make your donation, you can make a check out to CSA and drop it in the Sunday collection basket. We'll take care of it from there.

On Friday, June 13th we celebrate the feast of St. Anthony of Padua, a saint dear to many within and beyond the Franciscan family. Our National Shrine to St. Anthony in Cincinnati is the pilgrimage goal of several busloads of Detroit area Catholics. We will have a large congregation that day as well. The traditional blessing of bread will occur during the mass.

]]>Mon, 09 Jun 2014 04:10:43 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-7-8-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/june-7-8-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 31-June 1, 2014We welcome all of our newly registered parishioners to our 10 AM mass on Sunday, June 1. I hope that you'll find our parish to be welcoming to you and to the gifts that you bring to our faith community.

We are also setting aside this weekend to recognize and celebrate the success we've had so far with our Changing Lives Together campaign. Over the last several months we have been trying to update parishioners regarding the progress of this campaign. You are invited to pizza on Saturday evening and to enjoy breakfast on Sunday morning after the masses as we celebrate the first year of our three-year campaign. We have received 1/3 of our pledges towards the $243,096.00 pledged goal. We are right on target, and of course continuing to accept new pledges all the time!

Thanks to all of you who serve on our Pastoral Council and commissions. Let us be praying during the days leading up to Pentecost for the Holy Spirit's guidance as we discern our new members on June 8.

Last but not least, the Parish welcomes Fr Joe Hund, OFM as he celebrates 25 years of ordination at the 10 AM mass.

]]>Sun, 01 Jun 2014 02:28:52 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-31-june-1-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-31-june-1-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 24-25, 2014The parish doors open this week for photo appointments. I was very happy to see that we have filled most, if not all, of the available slots. I am really looking forward to the final product. Please remember that the only way to have your own copy is to have your picture taken. You are under no obligation to purchase the photo, and you will get one copy free as well.

You will soon be hearing about the results of an archdiocesan survey which some of you participated in last fall. Next weekend's bulletin will contain a summary of the total 41,000 responses that were submitted. Later on a more focused summary on our own parish results will be made available. Thanks to all who took the time to fill them out last year.

]]>Tue, 27 May 2014 03:57:48 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-24-25-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-24-25-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 17-18, 2014Every three years Franciscans gather as a province to discuss our life together and to plan for the future. This week all three of us will be at such a meeting. We call it the Provincial Chapter. Fr. George Berendt PIME will celebrate mass while we are gone. The chapter will be held at St. Meinrad Archabbey in southwest Indiana; it will begin on Monday and end on noon on Friday.

We have 101 families already registered for the parish pictorial directory. Thanks to all who have made their appointments. Our parish website has a link to the scheduling center. I used it and found it to be quite easy. You can also register at mass this weekend or next weekend. There are still plenty of times available for you!

Looking ahead: Memorial Day's Monday mass will be at 9:00am instead of the usual 12:00pm. On June 1, Fr. Joe Hund, OFM will be the celebrant for our 10:00am mass. He has his 25th jubilee of ordination this year. Pentecost Sunday falls on June 8 this year. We will be calling upon the Holy Spirit to guide us in the choice of pastoral council and commission memberships at the 10:00am mass.

]]>Tue, 13 May 2014 04:01:02 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-17-18-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-17-18-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 10-11, 2014This Sunday is designated as the world day of prayer for vocations. I ask you to join with me in prayer for a renewed openness among our young men and women to God's call. I am writing this from our Franciscan novitiate in Burlington, Wisconsin, where we are holding our provincial council meeting. This week I am praying and eating with the novices of our USA provinces. They are here in some measure because others prayed for this same openness. I hope someday that the parish will form a vocations committee to promote vocations within our family of faith.

On our council agenda is the request for one of our friars in training to spend a year here at Transfiguration friary. His name is Eric Sequin; we approved his request. He will be coming here in August to live in our fraternity, to help out in the parish, and to prepare himself through this experience to make solemn vows in 2015. Later in the summer I will ask him to introduce himself in the bulletin.

Since this Sunday is Mothers Day, I want to wish all of you who are celebrating it, a happy, blessed day. Thank you for your many sacrifices you make for your children. Please join us for breakfast on Sunday morning.

Thanks to everyone who made our first communion mass so special. I really enjoyed celebrating this moment. Also, telephone calls have gone out, along with my letter, to encourage you to make your photo appointment for our pictorial directory. If you did not hear from me, contact Mary in our front office so that she can update your contact information. .

]]>Tue, 13 May 2014 03:57:26 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-10-11-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-10-11-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMay 3-4, 2014Congratulations to our first communicants who take a big step in their spiritual journey at this Sunday's 10:00am mass. Thanks to all who have been involved in their preparation for this big day. May this day be the first of many celebrations with our parish parish family.

Every day another nomination form for the pastoral council and/or commissions comes into the parish office. The degree of interest in parish leadership is one sign of a healthy parish. Please take to prayer your own involvement in our parish.

Next weekend has been designated as the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Please read carefully this message from Pope Francis:

"Today too, Jesus lives and walks along the paths of ordinary life in order to draw near to everyone, beginning with the least, and to heal us of our infirmities and illnesses. I turn now to those who are well disposed to listen to the voice of Christ that rings out in the Church and to understand what their own vocation is. I invite you to listen to and follow Jesus, and to allow yourselves to be transformed interiorly by his words, which “are spirit and life” (Jn 6:62). Mary, the Mother of Jesus and ours, also says to us: “Do whatever he tells you” (Jn 2:5). It will help you to participate in a communal journey that is able to release the best energies in you and around you. A vocation is a fruit that ripens in a well cultivated field of mutual love that becomes mutual service, in the context of an authentic ecclesial life. No vocation is born of itself or lives for itself. A vocation flows from the heart of God and blossoms in the good soil of faithful people, in the experience of fraternal love. Did not Jesus say: “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (Jn 13:35)?"

Looking ahead: During the week of May 19-23, all of us friars are attending our provincial chapter at St. Meinrad, Indiana. This event occurs every three years, during which we discuss our life, our ministry and decide upon our leadership. Fr. George Berendt, PIME will celebrate our noon mass during the week we are gone. We will not have confessions on Tuesday of that week.

]]>Tue, 13 May 2014 03:42:35 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-3-4-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/may-3-4-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 26-27, 2014This weekend has been designated Divine Mercy Sunday. This Feast was granted to the Universal Church by Pope John Paul II Sr. Faustina was canonized on 30 April 2000. The decree establishing this feast stated that "throughout the world the Second Sunday of Easter will receive the name Divine Mercy Sunday, a perennial invitation to the Christian world to face, with confidence in divine benevolence, the difficulties and trials that mankind will experience in the years to come."

Today's gospel features one of the post-resurrection appearances recorded in John's gospel. Jesus empowers the apostles to forgive sins and bring this divine mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation. Also, this Sunday is the day chosen for the canonization of Pope's John Paul II and John XXIII. We will have the bell tower chapel stocked with candles for the weekend.

You'll be seeing some mail from the parish in the days ahead. The first is the annual kick-off letter for the CSA(Catholic Services Appeal). Please be generous in supporting the many, and often under-appreciated, services provided by the Archdiocese. Also, I've written an information letter to assist you in scheduling your photography session for our pictorial directory in early June.

Looking ahead: next Sunday, May 4th, our parish celebrates First Communion next Sunday at the 10:00am mass, and May crowning after the noon mass. Let's keep our first communion candidates in prayer during their final week of preparation.

]]>Tue, 13 May 2014 03:41:11 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-26-27-2014
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-26-27-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 19-20, 2014 - Easter SundayToday the somber colors of Lent give way to the joyful hues of Easter. The beauty of our church reflects the beauty of the risen Lord. Light and water replace the night and the desert experience of Lent. A brand-new Easter candle stands at the center of our church. Take a moment to look upon it before you leave. Consciously bless yourself with the holy water at the font.

At this font, three people became Catholic at the Easter Vigil. We welcome Karrington Baisden, and Devin and Kyren McPherson to our parish community. All three faithfully completed their Christian initiation and can fully participate in the worship and life. I wish to thank Mike Dillon for his work with our new members, who with Bro. Phil, Diane Klucka and Deacon Tom, helped prepare Karrington, Devin and Kyren for the Easter sacraments. We already have people interested for the next session of the RCIA. Anyone willing to join our RCIA is more than welcome.

This week I will be helping to host a meeting in Cincinnati with the Franciscan International Commission on Pastoral Education. Most participants speak Spanish only, but they really wanted to meet in the USA for the spring meeting. Next Saturday morning I will attend the solemn profession of a Poor Clare Sister, Sr. Vickie Griner, OSC before returning.

]]>Tue, 13 May 2014 03:39:56 +0000http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-19-20-2014-easter-sunday
http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-19-20-2014-easter-sundayFather Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMApril 5-6, 2014Last week I finalized arrangements for a new parish photo directory. We have contracted with Lifetouch, a company which offers a quality product and excellent support to parishes wishing to have such a directory. I hope that all of you will participate in this directory and will encourage others in the parish to do so.

An up-to-date pictorial directory can be an asset to this parish in several ways. It will help the new pastor, such as myself, become acquainted on a first-name basis with the parish family. It will also serve to build up a stronger community within the parish, making it easier for those recent and long-term members to know one another. Finally, the directory will be a celebration of who we are at this time in our history.

Sittings for portraits will take place in early June. Formal communications from the company will begin near Easter, along with the dates of the sittings and instructions on how to register for them. Again, you will do me a big favor by including yourself and your family in the directory. As usual, you are under no obligation to purchase anything, and simply by coming for your picture, you will be entitled to the picture and to a copy of the directory.

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/april-5-6-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 29-30, 2014The debate over the nature and meaning of marriage has begun a new chapter in Michigan with the recent overturning of the state's marriage amendment which defines marriage in terms that the Catholic Church has always taught. The newspapers have been covering the issue closely. The Michigan Catholic Conference will continue to provide information and statements about the position of the Catholic Church.

A recent email from the Archdiocese gives a good overview of the issues and the beliefs of the Catholic Church, under three headings. Please read this quotation from this message:

1) Upholding the distinction/definition of marriage and respect for the dignity of all persons are not opposed. These two values are compatible and promote the common good. Unconditional love and acceptance of all is at the very heart of our Catholic faith. So too is our witness to the truth that marriage is between one man and one woman, which is the foundation for the flourishing of society.

2) Children are at the very heart of marriage. The "supreme gift" of marriage, a child, comes precisely through the mutual, loving self-gift exchanged between husband and wife. It is only because of their sexual difference that spouses are able to cooperate with God in the awesome adventure of welcoming a child into the world. Marriage is a pro-child institution. Notwithstanding difficult situations or well-meaning intentions or social research that might suggest otherwise, the dignity of the child and right of every child to a mother and a father should not be ignored.

3) Judge Friedman's ruling, overturning 2004's voter-approved marriage amendment, does not force ministers and clergy in Michigan to marry same-sex couples if they are morally opposed. It has no impact on churches making their own "rules" and their freedom to exercise their religious beliefs.

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/march-29-30-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMMarch 22-23, 2014March 22-23, 2014The Third Sunday of Lent features the first of three Scrutinies of the elect who are journeying towards the Easter Vigil. The scrutiny is, as the word suggests, a close look at the spiritual readiness of the persons preparing for the Easter Sacrament. The gospel of these three consecutive Sundays of Lent (3rd, 4th and 5th) will set the theme for the scrutinies. This weekend, the Samaritan woman at the well, comes to understand Jesus as the source of living waters.

Accompanying each of the three scrutinies is a prayer of exorcism. The following quotations may help you understand the meaning of these rituals: “For the scrutinies are celebrated in order to deliver the elect from the power of sin and Satan, to protect them against temptation, and to give them strength in Christ.” And, "At its core, the scrutinies are not about the sinfulness of the elect but about the overwhelming grace of God in Christ. The exorcisms are not fear-laden bouts with Satan but are grace-filled encounters with the healing power of the Spirit."

Looking ahead: On March 25, a memorial mass for former parishioner Donna Shurkey will be held at our 12:00pm weekday mass. Donna was very involved in the parish for many years. We invite her friends to join with us in remembering her.

Last month our Worship Commission suggested that the arrangement of Eucharistic ministers be changed during the weekend masses to reduce congestion in the main aisle. As a result, you will only see two Eucharistic ministers, usually the main celebrant and Deacon Tom distributing hosts in the front of the main aisle. We started this arrangement last weekend, and the lines flowed more smoothly. The third minister of the hosts will instead bring the Body of Christ to those in the gathering area, or who have difficulty joining the communion procession in the usual manner.

Through the remainder of Lent I will be praying some of the different Eucharistic prayers in the new Roman Missal, instead of Number 3, which I ordinarily use on weekends. I hope the variety will help us (myself included) pay closer attention to the words and rituals of the Eucharistic prayer.

I've enjoyed the first two Friday Lenten fish dinners that the parish provides. If you've never come, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the delicious fish (baked and fried) as well as the side dishes. I'm not sure I really did my Lenten penance, since the food tasted so good!

Last Monday Fr. John Gagala fell in his home and broke his hip. He was scheduled for hip surgery last Tuesday. Please keep him in your prayers for a quick recovery. For the time being, either Fr. Jeremy or myself will be taking the 8:00am Sunday mass and the noon Thursday masses.

We are featuring a special message from Archbishop Vigneron at all the masses today, who wishes to announce to all the parishes a special year of prayer for a New Pentecost. Please take the time to read his letter which is included in this bulletin. Lent, which begins this Wednesday, will be an excellent time to seek the courage to be a proclaimer of the gospel.

Next weekend, our second collection, Aid to Eastern Europe, will be taken up. Please be generous to the many churches there who are struggling to rebuild churches and schools after many decades of religious oppression. The church in the Detroit area has been enriched by Catholics from these countries over many years.

Also, next weekend Fr. Francisco O Conaire, OFM will be visiting our friary. He was appointed to make a visit to all the friars around the province in preparation for our Provincial Chapter in May. He is eager to meet the people that the friars minister with. You have a good chance of meeting him before or after the masses on March 8-9.

Looking ahead...

On the weekend of March 15-16, you have the opportunity to receive the sacrament of the anointing of the sick at the 4:30pm Saturday mass and the 10:00am Sunday mass. If you are in need of this sacrament of healing, please seat yourself near the main aisle of church, so that Fr. Jeremy and I will be able to anoint you. I will say more about the services next weekend.

This week you will find in the bulletin a brochure from our Franciscan development office in Cincinnati. It was sent to all our Franciscan parishes to share with you what is going on throughout the entire province. Please take a few minutes to read about the other ministries of the province. I think that it is so important to see the bigger picture of the Franciscan presence in our country. And pray for vocations to the Franciscan Order too!

Next weekend you will also hear a second update on the "Changing Lives together" campaign. You will hear a brief report on the project we hope to accomplish through your generosity. Virtually all of the hard work done in organizing and carrying out this campaign was carried out before I arrived. I am truly thankful that, despite all the changes going on last year, the parish staff and many dedicated volunteers were able to accomplish so much during these interim months.

This coming Friday is Valentine's Day. Many parishes connect this celebration to the sacrament of marriage and do something special to affirm the married couples in our parish. I am interested in talking to any married couples who would be willing to function as "sponsor couples" for those preparing for the sacrament of marriage. Training will be provided. Please contact me if you are interested in this ministry. Presently I have four couples that I and Deacon Tom are working with,

Our parish ushers have arranged with the Southfield Fire Department to offer a training session in CPR and in the use of our AED (automated external defibrillator) device in church. We have several openings for this training available, which is scheduled to run from 9am to 12pm on February 22. Please contact our business manager, Sharon Myers, if you would like to join this session.

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http://www.transfigsfld.org/blog/n/february-9-2014Father Bill Farris, OFMFather Bill Farris, OFMFebruary 2, 2014Next Sunday we welcome Bishop Reiss to the 10:00am mass as this year's celebrant for the sacrament of confirmation. Last week I interviewed the four candidates. Each one is eager to receive the sacrament. I am eager to see them continue to grow as fully initiated Catholics within our parish family.

Although Lent does not begin until March this year, it is still not far away and not too soon to begin reflecting on how we will observe it. The Education Commission will be hosting a Lenten evening series, featuring a new set of talks by Fr. Barron on Catholic evangelization. His first series on Catholicism was well received by the parish last year during Lent. More details will be coming. I am looking forward to viewing and discussing these videos with you.

Our local Knights of Columbus Council did a great job organizing a food collection for our parish outreach program two weeks ago. They stood outside the Kroger store on Middlebelt and 11 Mile over the weekend, collecting donations in the cold weather. A total of 4233 pounds of food is now being distributed by the Franciscan Outreach program, thanks to their hard work. Great job!